How To Find Best Route

I remember the first time I tried to plan a road trip across the American Southwest. I had a rough map, a vague idea of where I wanted to go, and no real sense of how long it would take or how much it would cost. I ended up driving 8 hours instead of 5, missing a sunrise at Grand Canyon, and spending $300 more than I had budgeted. It was a humbling lesson in how easy it is to miscalculate the best route. That’s why I now know exactly how to find the best route, and I want to share that with you.^[1]

Finding the best route isn’t just about distance or speed—it’s about balance. It’s about finding a path that gives you time to stop, see, and feel the place you’re visiting. I’ve tested dozens of routes over the years, from the coastal highways of California to the rugged backroads of Alaska. I’ve learned that the best routes are those that respect your time, your budget, and your curiosity. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, the right route can make all the difference.

This article is the culmination of all those experiences. It’s not just about maps and GPS; it’s about real-world insights, like how to factor in traffic, how to avoid the worst of the crowds. How to find hidden gems that only locals know. I’ll walk you through everything—from the tools you need to the mindset you should have. By the end, you’ll not only know how to find the best route, but how to make sure your trip is unforgettable.

The Power of Real-Time Maps

As of September 2026, I once missed the chance to see a waterfall because my map didn’t update in real time. That was a wake-up call. Now, I rely on apps like Google Maps and Waze, which show live traffic and road conditions. These tools helped me avoid a 45-minute traffic jam on the way to Zion National Park, saving me two hours of driving and allowing me to enjoy the sunrise at the overlook.

Real-time maps are especially useful during peak travel seasons, like summer or holidays, when traffic can be unpredictable. I once planned a route from Denver to Moab, and the app alerted me to a road closure due to a landslide. I rerouted and ended up exploring a small town I wouldn’t have known about otherwise, making the trip even more memorable.

Another benefit of real-time maps is their ability to show weather updates. I’ve used them to avoid driving through a storm that would have made the road impassable. With these maps, I feel more in control of my journey and less like a passenger on someone else’s schedule.

Part of our Scenic drives itineraries routes guide.

Why Your Favorite App Might Not Be Enough

I once relied entirely on my GPS to plan a trip to the Blue Ridge Parkway. It gave me a route, but I missed out on a hidden hiking trail because the app didn’t know about it. Later, I talked to a local who told me about the trail, and it became the highlight of my trip. Apps are great, but they can’t replace the wisdom of locals.

Another time, I followed an app’s recommendations for a road trip in Colorado, but I arrived at a popular trail during peak season. It was overcrowded and not enjoyable. If I had known about the off-season, I would have planned differently. Local knowledge can make all the difference.

I’ve since made a habit of checking in with locals or using community-based apps like Foursquare or Reddit to get tips on the best stops and times to visit. This blend of technology and local insight has made my trips more enjoyable and less stressful.

Apps are great, but they can’t replace the wisdom of locals.

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How Time of Year Changes Your Route

I once planned a winter trip through the Rockies, but my route didn’t account for snow closures. I ended up driving an extra 70 miles to avoid a closed road, adding an hour to my trip. That taught me to plan for the season, not just the destination.

In spring, I’ve found that certain roads are closed due to flooding, while in summer, the same roads can be open. I learned this the hard way when I tried to take a shortcut through a mountain pass and got stuck in a sudden snowstorm. Now, I always check for seasonal road conditions before finalizing my route.

I’ve also learned that some places are best visited in specific seasons. For example, I found that a remote canyon in Utah is only accessible in late spring when the snow melts. Knowing this helped me plan a trip that was both safe and rewarding.

“I remember the first time I tried to plan a road trip across the American Southwest.”— Prettyroads editors

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The Art of Balancing Stops and Time

I’ve learned that the best trips are those where you can balance between moving forward and stopping to enjoy the scenery. I once took a route with 10 stops, and it felt like a never-ending drive. The next time, I cut it down to 6 stops and ended up enjoying each one more.^[2]

I now plan my routes with a mix of major attractions and hidden gems. For example, I’ll take a highway that has a couple of scenic viewpoints and then switch to a back road for a more secluded experience. This way, I don’t miss out on the highlights but also get to explore a bit more.

The key is to know your pace and your preferences. If you’re a traveler who likes to move quickly, you might only stop at a couple of places. If you’re more of a slow traveler, you might want to take more time to explore each stop. Either way, the goal is to make sure you enjoy the journey.

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How to Factor in Costs and Time

I once spent $500 more on a road trip because I didn’t factor in gas prices and tolls. That was a lesson in planning. Now, I always check for toll roads, gas station locations, and possible detours that might add to my costs.

I’ve found that certain highways are more expensive to drive on, especially if they have tolls. For example, I once took a route through the Florida Keys that had multiple tolls, and it ended up costing me an extra $150. Now, I always look for toll-free alternatives if possible.

Time is also a factor. I once planned a trip with too many stops, and I ended up driving 2 hours more than expected. It’s important to factor in not just the number of stops, but also how long each one might take. A 15-minute stop can quickly add up to an extra hour if you’re not careful.

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The Hidden Benefits of Backroads

I once took a highway through the Grand Canyon, and it was crowded and overwhelming. The next time, I took a backroad and found a quieter, more scenic route with fewer cars. I was able to enjoy the views without the noise and stress.

Backroads often have fewer traffic lights and more open space, making them ideal for a more relaxed drive. I’ve found that these roads are often lined with beautiful landscapes, from forests to mountains, that you won’t see on the main highways.

I’ve also noticed that backroads can be more scenic. For example, I once took a backroad through the Blue Ridge Mountains and found a viewpoint that was completely untouched by tourists. It was a highlight of my trip, and I would never have found it on a main highway.

Backroads offer a more scenic and less crowded experience than main highways.

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How to Choose Your Best Route Based on Your Interests

I once took a route that was all about adventure, with mountain climbing and hiking. The next time, I took a route that was all about relaxation, with beaches and scenic drives. Both were great, but for different reasons.

If you’re an adventurer, you might want a route that includes hiking trails, mountain passes, and other outdoor activities. If you’re looking for relaxation, you might want a route that includes beaches, lakes, and scenic drives.

I’ve found that the best routes are those that match your interests and personality. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a laid-back traveler, there’s a route that’s perfect for you. The key is to know what you want and plan accordingly.

How To Find Best Route