The United States boasts a vast and diverse landscape that is begging to be explored by road. Some states offer epic drives that stretch for hundreds of miles for those who crave adventure and a good dose of windshield time. This list dives into the top 10 states where you can put the pedal to the metal and experience a true coast-to-coast or border-to-border adventure. Get ready for scenic wonders, diverse terrains, and the thrill of a long road trip.
Top 10 Longest States to Drive Through
Continuing our exploration of the longest drives in the US, here’s a quick rundown of the top 10 states to conquer by car, from Alaska’s epic north-south haul to Texas’ vast expanse and everything in between; get ready for some unforgettable road trip adventures.
1: Alaska
Alaska reigns supreme as the longest state to drive through due to its sheer size. While Texas might be the king of total area, Alaska boasts the most distance when travelling north to south. The vast Alaskan landscape translates to hundreds of miles between major points, making for an epic and potentially record-breaking road trip.
2: Texas
Texas holds the number two spot for the longest distance to drive east to west, not north to south. While Texas is massive, Alaska reigns supreme for the longest north-to-south drive in the US. Texas comes in third for north-to-south distance, behind California. But when it comes to crossing the state east to west by car, Texas stretches an impressive 773 miles, making it the second-longest east-to-west drive in the continental US.
3: Montana
Montana snags the title of 3rd longest state to drive through thanks to its impressive north-south distance. While Montana may not be the widest state, it stretches significantly from border to border. This allows for a long road trip experience within the state’s boundaries.
4: Nebraska
Nebraska earns its rank as the 4th longest state to drive through due to its expansive east-west span. Stretching over 400 miles, the state’s flat terrain and vast agricultural landscapes contribute to lengthy travel times. The lack of major geographical obstacles and a relatively straightforward road network make traversing Nebraska a lengthy but straightforward journey, placing it among the top states for road trip distances.
5: Oregon
Oregon is the fifth longest state to drive through due to its expansive geographical features. Stretching approximately 400 miles from its northern to southern borders, the state encompasses diverse landscapes, including mountains, valleys, and coastal areas. Interstate 5, a major north-south route, traverses this varied terrain, contributing to the overall length of travel. Oregon’s elongated shape and scenic diversity make it the fifth-longest state for drivers to navigate.
6: California
California is the 6th longest state to drive through due to its extensive north-south expanse. Spanning over 800 miles from the Oregon border to Mexico, the diverse topography and varying landscapes contribute to the extended drive time. From the rugged coastline and expansive deserts to mountainous regions, traversing California entails navigating through many terrains, making it the 6th longest state for road travel in the United States.
7: South Dakota
South Dakota is the 7th longest state to drive through due to its expansive landscape and road network. Covering approximately 380 miles from east to west, the state’s vast stretches of open terrain contribute to the overall length of the journey. Travelers encounter diverse scenery, from the rolling prairies in the east to the iconic Badlands and Black Hills in the west, making South Dakota’s highways an extended and captivating drive.
8: Kansas
Kansas is the 8th longest state to drive through due to its extensive east-west span. Stretching approximately 413 miles from its eastern to western borders, the state boasts vast expanses of flat terrain, contributing to longer travel times. While it may not have the sheer length of some western states, Kansas’ breadth still requires considerable driving time, making it the 8th longest to traverse by road.
9: Minnesota
Minnesota is the 9th longest state to drive through due to its expansive north-south stretch. Spanning approximately 400 miles from its southern to northern borders, the state’s elongated geography contributes to its ranking. Travellers encounter diverse landscapes, from the bustling Twin Cities in the south to the Boundary Waters wilderness in the north, making the journey through Minnesota both lengthy and scenically rich.
10: Colorado
Colorado is the 10th longest state to drive through due to its expansive terrain and diverse landscapes. Spanning approximately 380 miles from its northern to southern borders, the state offers a journey through high plains, the majestic Rocky Mountains, and arid plateaus. The winding roads and varying elevations contribute to a longer driving distance, making Colorado a captivating but extensive route for travellers.
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What are the 10 longest states?
The 10 longest states in the U.S. by driving distance are Alaska, Texas, California, Montana, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Colorado, Oregon, and Wyoming, each offering vast and diverse landscapes.
What is the 2nd longest state?
Texas is the second longest state, stretching about 801 miles from its northern to southern borders. Its vast expanse encompasses diverse landscapes, including plains, deserts, and coastal areas.
Which state is the biggest in the USA?
Alaska is the largest state in the USA, encompassing a vast area of over 663,000 square miles. Its immense size surpasses all other states, including Texas, which ranks second.
What 3 states have the longest names?
Rhode Island, North Carolina, and South Carolina are the three states with the longest names, each containing 12 letters. Their lengthy names reflect the historical and geographical aspects of the regions they represent.
Conclusion
In summary, travelling across the ten longest states in the USA is a thrilling journey that takes you through various environments and geographical characteristics. Every state adds something special to a road trip experience, from the vast plains of Texas to the wild landscapes of Alaska. Travelling these long states offers an insight into the geographical diversity and complexity of the nation, whether it’s the expansive roads of California or the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado.
