North America’s untouched beauty extends from the Arctic Circle to the Isthmus of Panama. But what’s the best way to see these sights?
Load up your vehicle and drive around the continent to appreciate its majestic views.
Here’s your guide to the 12 best overlanding destinations in North America.
Related read: How to Start Overlanding: What to Know and How to Plan
Here’s an overview:
1. Mojave Road
One of the best parts of overlapping in North America is exploring the continent’s most intimidating destinations. For instance, thrill-seekers enjoy traveling the Mojave Road in Southern California.
The 150-mile path demonstrates historical significance and natural beauty as you adventure through the desert. Most of the road takes you through Mojave National Preserve, one of the hottest places in North America.
The climate can be challenging on Mojave Road, considering the fire risks and temperatures reaching 120 degrees Fahrenheit. However, seasons outside of summer are more pleasant and worth a trip.
When overlanding here, take advantage of established hiking paths like the Lava Tube and Rock Springs trails. The best overnight stays are at Black Canyon, Mid Hills and Hole-in-the-Wall.
2. Baja California
Continue driving past San Diego until you reach the Mexican border. Then, you can enter Baja California and its natural glory. The peninsula is over 55,000 square miles, so there’s plenty of room for overlanders to enjoy the warm weather.
Along the way, you’ll find scenic Pacific Ocean beaches, fun towns and consistently sunny skies. Before heading here, prepare your passport and Mexican car insurance paperwork to present to officials.
Overlanding in Mexico is great for those on a budget. The country features inexpensive street food in most cities, letting you minimize the cash you carry.
Baja California adventurers should camp at Bahía San Luis Gonzaga in Ensenada or La Bocana just south of the city.
Related read: Explore the Region of Loreto and Baja California Sur, Mexico
3. Yucatán Peninsula
If your goal is to travel across Mexico, the Yucatán Peninsula should be one of your overlanding destinations. The tip of Mexico features beautiful beaches and glimpses of the Old World as you travel.
The Yucatán Peninsula is more developed than Baja California, although there are still places to have south-of-the-border adventures. This part of Mexico is famous for its Mayan architecture, such as the Kohunlich, Chichen Itza and the ancient city of Calakmul.
Stay in the central or northern parts of the Yucatán Peninsula if you want time to yourself. That said, Cancún, Cozumel and Playa del Carmen are fun if you enjoy beach town atmospheres.
Overlanders should visit the isolated beaches up north, such as Las Coloradas. This shoreline is typically quiet while providing views of the unique pink lake.
Related read: Restaurants in Yucatan, Mexico: Five Culinary Experiences
4. Alpine Loop
The Rocky Mountains are a bucket list stop for overlanders because of the rugged terrain and stunning beauty. While here, you should trek the Alpine Loop for an advanced off-road course.
The Alpine Loop encompasses 63 miles and is typically open only from Memorial Day until October. The short season is because the early and late parts of the year bring too much snow for travelers.
This area is remote enough to enjoy the mountain views alone while still being close to civilization. On the Alpine Loop, you’ll be close to Lake City, Silverton and Ouray.
Overlanders also taste history by passing through old mines and ghost towns. Be cautious because the Alpine Loop’s mountain passes and narrow roads can be tricky for off-roading beginners.
5. The Grand Canyon
When you imagine North America’s greatest natural wonders, the Grand Canyon should be near the top of the list. This Arizona site is like no other across the continent.
The Grand Canyon has a touristy reputation, although overlanders can find solitude and camping opportunities. Visit the North Rim for less foot traffic and advanced hiking trails with spectacular views.
When traversing this national park, hike the Bright Angel Trail on the South Rim for a challenging adventure. The trail includes wide lanes for accessibility, although you won’t find much shade on the path.
Overnight lodging is available in the nearby Kaibab National Forest and the Kaibab Plateau. A backcountry permit may be needed to stay in the North Rim.
Related read: What are the Best National Parks to Visit in April?
6. Red Rock Canyon
Overlanders don’t have to travel far to see another iconic canyon. West of Las Vegas, travelers can find the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and take a break from the bright lights.
This natural beauty is within Nevada’s Mojave Desert, so it could be one of your overland destinations alongside Mojave National Road or Death Valley National Park. Desert tortoises, rock formations and scenic drives highlight this recreational area.
When the weather is nice, stop at Red Rock Canyon’s 19 hiking trails that range in difficulty. While some are more strenuous, there are paths for beginners and leisurely walks.
Red Rock Canyon Campground is the only developed site for overnight stays. Otherwise, you’ll need to find primitive camping elsewhere.
Related read: Popular Outdoor Activities in Las Vegas
7. White Rim Trail
Utah is one of North America’s premier destinations for overlanding and outdoor fun. The Mighty Five national parks include Zion, Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef.
At Canyonlands National Park, overlanders can travel on the White Rim Trail. This site is popular with cyclists and other adventurers, though there’s enough room for everyone to enjoy the scenery.
The White Rim Trail is apt for beginners who don’t want a challenging, technical ride. A four-wheel drive helps you navigate the terrain, but it’s not mandatory for riding.
Despite the desert landscape, the Green and Colorado Rivers have accessible water opportunities. However, watch out for flooding, as it doesn’t take much to overflow.
8. Cape Lookout National Seashore
While the western U.S. has numerous national parks and forests, the eastern half boasts incredible overlanding destinations. Start at Cape Lookout National Seashore in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
Cape Lookout is terrific for overlanding because of its diverse terrain. While the white sand beaches are popular, you also get forests and rolling dunes for off-roading.
The sand can be challenging to traverse because of its reduced contact, so air down your tires. Fortunately, Cape Lookout has a few areas to replenish your tire pressure.
This East Coast site is excellent if you’re looking for an easy, beginner-friendly overlanding excursion. The hiking trails and campgrounds require little experience before coming here.
9. Dempster Highway
Overlanding is also possible when you find destinations in the Great White North. Canada’s massive open lands mean plenty to explore and see with the whole family.
Head to Dempster Highway for the best of Canada’s off-roading and overlanding experiences. This long stretch of road takes you through the Yukon Territory, the Northwest Territories and the Arctic Circle.
While driving on the highway isn’t complex, exploring takes a long time. You’ll likely be on the path alone, with only the tundra surrounding you.
If you cross the Canadian border, ensure you have your passports and other documentation. The country requires a visitor visa for most travelers, although American tourists are the exception.
10. Trans-Labrador Highway
Another famous Canadian overlanding trip takes you to the opposite side of the country. The Trans-Labrador Highway starts around Fermont, Quebec, before crossing into Newfoundland and Labrador. Then, your journey ends at the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
The Trans-Labrador Highway has become easier to drive on because of its recent paving. However, the isolated road is challenging due to the unpaved mountain sections and the sparse stops.
Altogether, the long highway in Canada spans nearly 700 miles and provides weeks’ worth of fun. Along the way, overlanders see unique fishing villages and a change of pace from normal life.
The extreme isolation means you might not encounter a gas station for a long time, so bringing your own fuel is wise. Use stabilizers to make your fuel last longer on the trip.
11. Kentucky Adventure Tour
Appalachia is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts, so what better way to see it than taking the Kentucky Adventure Tour? This nearly 1,000-mile path takes you around the hills and mountains of eastern Kentucky.
The Kentucky Adventure Tour provides a nice mix of unpaved and paved backroads to satisfy any outdoor craving. Get on and off at any point, or travel the entire distance in your off-highway vehicle.
Along the trip, you’ll see Daniel Boone National Forest and cross the Tennessee border to visit the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. If you ever want to feel like Daniel Boone crossing the Cumberland Gap, here’s your chance.
One good thing about the Kentucky Adventure Tour is the mild weather year-round. While spring and fall are the recommended seasons, you can travel during the summer and winter and have a fun trip.
12. Trans-Wisconsin Adventure Trail
While shorter than its Kentucky counterpart, the Trans-Wisconsin Adventure Trail displays the best overlanding destinations in The Badger State. From the Illinois border to Lake Superior, there are outdoor sights for everyone.
The trail is primarily for motorcycles, although four-wheel drive can navigate the terrain. Rain could make some parts too muddy unless you’re in an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or other well-equipped off-roader.
The Trans-Wisconsin Adventure Trail is popular among Midwesterners for its diverse landscape. For instance, there are beautiful waterfalls in Ashland and Iron counties, and excellent hiking opportunities are available near the lake.
When traveling, prioritize stops at Wyalusing State Park and the Apostle Island National Lakeshore. These sites are great for sightseeing and overnight stays in your overlanding vehicle.
Finding the Best Overlanding Destinations in North America
Overlanding takes you to destinations across North America, whether the colorful beaches of Mexico or the tundra in Canada. The continent features natural beauty wherever you are, so take your time and embrace the incredible scenery.
