Endless Horizons on America's Longest Highway

Route 66 has long been America's favorite highway: "Get Your Kicks on Route 66." However, there is another roadway deserving of praise, that spans the entire length of the country.

America's Route 20, which connects the East and West coasts, spans twelve states from Massachusetts to Oregon, each with their own adventures and sights.

Covering more than 3,300 miles, it makes for a road trip like none other to experience Americana at its best. One of the most comprehensive books about the highway from Newport to Boston, written by Bryan Farr, is Historic US Route 20, A Journey Across America's Longest Highway. Farr includes a plethora of photos along the route with interesting tidbits about the many towns included in Route 20's path.

In addition to Bryan Farr's book, there are several Facebook groups available to join offering tips and photos such as Route 20 - America's Road and Bryan's site, Historic Route 20. There are also several sites dedicated to individual states included in the route.

Here are just a few of the treats you'll find along the way:

Oregon

Beginning in Newport, Oregon, U.S. 20 runs east to Idaho through Corvallis, the Cascade Mountains and Bend.

Before reaching the Willamette National Forest, you'll run into Sweet Home, the birthplace of White's Metal Detector Factory and Museum of Finds. Old metal detectors and items that have been found over the years are displayed, including everything from guns to jewelry.

Idaho

From the state's border, close to its capital, Boise, Route 20 connects with Arco, the first municipality in the world ever to be run totally by nuclear power. Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve is also on the route, created from volcano eruptions which formed lava fields covering 618 square miles.

Montana

Even though Montana is a huge state, you'll only travel a short distance on Route 20 as it runs for less than 10 miles to the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Check local traffic sites, as there are certain months during the year (and also weather events) that might prohibit travel through this section.

Wyoming

The Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway begins in Shoshoni and winds north on 20 with views of Wind River Canyon including rock walls, the Owl Creek Mountains and the Boysen Reservoir. The Wind River Indian Reservation operates a Whitewater and Flyfishing Outfitter, the only one permitted to raft and fish in the reservation portion of the canyon.

Keep driving and you'll wind up in Thermopolis, which offers Hot Springs State Park, the world's largest mineral hot springs. Native Americans believe in its healing powers, and the state bathhouse is free of charge.

New York

Worth a stop in central New York, visit the village of Skaneateles, on the north end of the Finger Lakes, specifically Skaneateles Lake. The town offers an ample supply of boutique lodging, restaurants, shopping and plenty of water excursions. Stop by for the World's Smallest Parade, usually the end of November, which kicks off a Dickens Christmas in the village.

Massachusetts

Route 20 ends (or starts, as the case may be) at Kenmore Square, site of the iconic Citgo sign in Boston.

Travel about two hours west and you'll find the Appalachian Trial crossing where Route 20 is named: The Jacobs Ladder Highway. This 35-mile stretch parallels the Massachusetts Turnpike, winding through quaint towns in the Berkshire Foothills.

---

For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore