The Best Road Trips for Thrill Seekers
The world is full of awe-inspiring places that provide joy and exhilaration. From mountain climbs to switchback roads, humans inherently enjoy the thrill of seeing the ends of the earth. Unlike anything else in life, a new experience gives your mind, body, and spirit a sense of profound adventure.
“Roads were made for journeys, not destinations.” Confucius
Millions of people live every day hoping to feel a stimulation that reminds them of why we live. The explorers of the world are looking to find that excitement that drives them. One of the best ways to do that is a road trip.
Whether you’re looking to be frightened by a skinny road, tested by a 500-turn journey, or awakened by a breathtaking view, the world is full of inspiring road trips. So, grab your backpack, pay that car insurance for pleasure use, and tie your shoes tight because we’re going on a journey to find the best road trips for thrill-seekers.
#8.Tail of the Dragon, North Carolina
Adrenaline is known to bring strength and courage to people. The Tail of the Dragon is known as one of the most adrenaline-filled rides in the world. Recognized by motorcycle riders and professional racers alike, the Tail of the Dragon stretches a span of just 11 miles between North Carolina and Tennessee.
Though it isn’t a lengthy trip, if you’re on the lookout for adventure, the 318-turn stretch of road is among the most thrilling in the United States. Long curves, blind hills, and dense forest provide a beautiful yet scary drive.
The road to the Tail of the Dragon is also a beautiful sight. As you travel throughout the Appalachian Mountains, you’ll see spectacular views around every corner.
#7.Route 66, United States
No road trip list is complete without the infamous Route 66. Also known as the “Main Street of America,” this road spans nearly 2,500 miles from Illinois to California. In 1926, the United States needed a proper traveling road to bring goods to other parts of the country in a timely fashion.
From this need came the most recognized road in the world.
Along the journey across eight states, you’ll see everything from snowy peaks to desert canyons. You’ll journey through the largest cities in the continental United States and enjoy the forgotten towns along the way.
There may not be overly terrifying switchbacks or hundreds of curves, but Route 66 is a treasure trove of beauty that will leave any thrill-seeker with a soul full of happiness.
#6Atlantic Road, Norway
The Atlantic Ocean possesses unmatched power. The gorgeous water will draw you in, and its frightening strength will make you realize how small you truly are.
Located in the heart of Norway, the Atlantic Road takes you on a journey over seven bridges that connect between islands. The five miles of road is steeped with sharp turns, sudden drops, and blind corners. If you catch a glimpse of the road during a storm, you’ll find that the ocean waves overtake the blacktop.
The world is a scary place — don’t take the Atlantic Road if you want to try to forget that fact. It will make you recall how insignificant our monotonous lives are compared to our natural surroundings.
#5Tianmen Shan Big Gate, China
In the Hunan Province of China, you’ll encounter a road that rapidly winds to the sky. Climbing from 200 feet above sea level to more than 1300 feet, the Tianmen Shan Big Gate road is recognized as one of the world’s most dangerous roads.
Boasting 99 bends and hidden tunnels around every turn, the adrenaline-junkie in you will be satisfied on this drive. The Chinese road was built in the “Heaven’s Gate Mountain” within the Tianmen National Park. Elevating to more than 4,000 feet, you won’t soon forget the feeling of butterflies in your stomach when you look over this stretch of concrete.
If you need your fix of terrifying encounters, the Tianmen Shan Big Gate road will shock you.
#4The Widow-Maker, United Kingdom
Located in the English countryside, Widow-Maker Road is as beautiful as it is frightening. The road is equipped with severe bends and steep drops that are surrounded by cobblestone walls.
While there may be more cars on this road than you’d prefer, it offers a spectacular view of the green hills that the United Kingdom is so famous for. Also known as “Cat and Fiddle Road,” this highway will provide everything thrill-seekers are searching for — a sense of adventure, beauty, and worry.
Since 2010, there have been more fatalities on the Widow-Maker than any other road in the UK. So, be sure to keep your eyes peeled and your hands on the wheel on this road.
#3Road to Hana, Hawaii
Hawaii is well known from America to Africa for its intense beauty. People from all over the world travel to the high cliffs and beaches to catch a glimpse. Among the top attractions is the Road to Hana.
Located in a small area of East Maui, the Hana Highway makes most destinations look like child's play. Stretching about 65 miles up the coast, the road connects Kahului to Hana. While the stunning view will distract you, the road is made up of 620 curves. Studded high in the mountains, it is windy nearly all the time and can be very difficult to drive.
The Road to Hana is narrow, touchy, and unforgiving, but if you enjoy a heart-racing joy ride, look no further than one of Hawaii’s most famous roads.
#2The Overseas Highway, Florida
Unlike Hawaii, Florida is one of the flattest places on Earth. What it lacks in topography, it makes up for in sunsets and crystal clear waters.The Overseas Highway stretches from Miami to the Florida Keys. This incredible 113-mile span of roadway is pictured in calendars, movies, and pop-culture. The overseas highway was initially built in 1912. Although it has been rebuilt, the road still holds a valuable place in the state’s history.
If you’re looking for a road trip that isn’t too difficult to traverse but provides stunning views, the Overseas Highway is gorgeous and as smooth as they come.
#1Death Road, Bolivia
A gravel road buried deep in the Bolivian jungle is the best road trip for any thrill-seeker. Known as Death Road, this 43 mile stretch between La Paz and Coroico is the deadliest and most infamous highway in the world.
The tiny road reaches heights of more than 4,000 feet and will deliver an adrenaline rush like no other. If you’re afraid of heights, you’ll want to choose a different route. Winding and turning through deep canyons and vast rainforests, this beautiful but terrifying road will leave you breathless.
Travel the Thrilling Roads Worldwide
Road trips are a fantastic way to remember the important things in this world.
Life is meant to be lived, and there is so much more to see than the same old eight-lane highway. Roads connect the vast reaches of the earth to the people who call this planet home.
So, go out and experience an adventure. Take a road-trip that scares you. Find somewhere you haven’t been, and make every second count.
 | Ethan Lichtenberg writes and researches for the auto insurance comparison site, 4AutoInsuranceQuote.com. He specializes in insurance and travel writing. Ethan lives in sunny Tarpon Springs, Florida and has been to ten countries. |