Okay, let's cut straight to the chase because I know that's what you came for. If you typed "what is the longest road in america" into Google, you probably want a simple answer. The official titleholder for the longest road entirely within the United States is US Route 20. It stretches a mind-boggling 3,365 miles (approximately 5,415 kilometres) from Boston, Massachusetts, all the way to Newport, Oregon, kissing the Pacific Ocean. Think about that distance for a second – it's like driving from New York City to Los Angeles... and then adding another several hundred miles for good measure!
But here's the thing, folks – it's not *quite* as simple as that. Depending on how you slice it (continuous routing, official designations, historical quirks), you might hear arguments for US Route 6 or even US Route 30. I remember planning a cross-country trip years ago and getting thoroughly confused by conflicting online claims. Was it 20? Was it 6? Why did some sources say 30 was longer? This messiness is exactly why we need to dive deeper than just a headline number.
The Crown Holder: US Route 20 - America's Backbone
So, why does US Route 20 get the undisputed crown for the longest road in America? It boils down to its continuous, unbroken path across the northern tier of the country. Officially designated in 1926, it evolved from a network of auto trails. Driving its entire length isn't just a journey; it's a marathon through American geography, history, and culture.
Where Does US Route 20 Start and Finish?
- Eastern Terminus: Kenmore Square, Boston, Massachusetts (Right near Fenway Park – Go Sox!). The official marker is easy to miss if you're not looking.
- Western Terminus: US Route 101 in Newport, Oregon. The road literally ends at the edge of Yaquina Bay, with the Pacific Ocean stretching out beyond. It's a pretty satisfying endpoint after thousands of miles.
The Epic Journey: States Traversed by US 20
Driving the entire length of US 20 means passing through a whopping 12 states. Here's the breakdown from east to west, showing just how diverse the landscapes are:
| State | Key Cities/Towns on Route | Approximate Miles in State | Notable Landscapes/Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | Boston, Springfield, Pittsfield | 150 | Historic New England towns, Berkshire Mountains |
| New York | Albany, Utica, Buffalo | 372 | Finger Lakes Region, Erie Canal, Niagara Falls proximity |
| Pennsylvania | Erie | 45 | Short but vital Great Lakes stretch |
| Ohio | Toledo, Cleveland (south), Norwalk | 260 | Farmland, Sandusky Bay, Amish Country proximity |
| Indiana | South Bend, Elkhart, Fort Wayne | 160 | RV Capital (Elkhart), Northern Indiana lakes |
| Illinois | Chicago (south suburbs), Rockford, Galena | 200 | Prairie, Mississippi River bluffs (Galena) |
| Iowa | Waterloo, Cedar Falls, Fort Dodge, Sioux City | 330 | Rolling farmland covered in corn/soybeans, Maquoketa Caves State Park nearby |
| Nebraska | O'Neill, Valentine | 430 | Sandhills region (unique grass-stabilized dunes), Niobrara River |
| Wyoming | Yellowstone National Park (South Entrance) | 60 | Short but spectacular segment through Yellowstone |
| Idaho | Island Park, Idaho Falls, Arco, Mountain Home | 400 | Snake River Plain, Craters of the Moon National Monument, Sawtooth Mountains proximity |
| Oregon | Ontario, Burns, Bend, Sisters, Corvallis, Newport | 580 | High Desert, Cascades Mountains (Santiam Pass), Willamette Valley, Coastal Range |
| Total Approximate Length: | 3,365 miles | ||
Wyoming's section is short but packs a punch – driving through Yellowstone is unforgettable, though traffic jams caused by bison are a real possibility (speaking from experience here, it adds time!). Oregon's stretch is surprisingly diverse, shifting from high desert near the Idaho border to lush forests and finally the moody Pacific coast. That climb over Santiam Pass can be hairy in winter, trust me.
The Contenders: Where the Confusion Comes From (US-6 and US-30)
So why do folks sometimes get confused about what is the longest road in America? Enter the contenders, each with a valid argument depending on the criteria.
US Route 6: The "Longest Continuous" Claim
US Route 6, running from Provincetown, Massachusetts, to Bishop, California, often claims the title of "longest continuous transcontinental highway." Historically, it stretched further to Long Beach, California, reaching about 3,652 miles. Here's the rub:
- The Discontinuity: A section near Bishop, CA, was decommissioned in the 1960s. The highway now officially ends near Bishop, cutting its continuous length significantly shorter than Route 20.
- The Original Route: If you consider its *original* endpoint in Long Beach, CA (roughly 3,652 miles), it technically *was* longer than US-20. But this longer route hasn't been officially designated or continuous for decades. Driving the original path isn't straightforward.
- Current Status: Today, US-6 is approximately 3,207 miles long from Provincetown, MA, to Bishop, CA – shorter than US-20's continuous 3,365 miles. Its claim relies on history, not current reality.
US Route 30: The Lincoln Highway Legacy
US Route 30 follows much of the historic Lincoln Highway (America's first transcontinental auto route). It runs from Atlantic City, NJ, to Astoria, OR, covering about 3,073 miles. Impressive, but shorter than US-20.
- Why it gets mentioned: Its historical significance (Lincoln Highway) and name recognition. Parts feel incredibly historic.
- The Reality: It's simply not as long as US Route 20. While iconic, it doesn't hold the length record. Driving sections in Pennsylvania and Nebraska, I found the Lincoln Highway markers really cool, but the road itself often parallels faster Interstates.
Comparison: Clearing the Confusion on the Longest Roads
| Route | Termini | Claimed/Historic Length (Miles) | Current Official Continuous Length (Miles) | Status for "Longest Road in America" |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Route 20 | Boston, MA to Newport, OR | ~3,365 | 3,365 (Fully Continuous) | Official Holder - Longest fully continuous route entirely within the US. |
| US Route 6 (Historic) | Provincetown, MA to Long Beach, CA | ~3,652 | N/A (Not continuous) | Historically longest, but discontinuity near Bishop, CA, removes this status. Cannot be driven as one continuous signed route today. |
| US Route 6 (Current) | Provincetown, MA to Bishop, CA | ~3,207 | ~3,207 (Continuous to Bishop) | Shorter than US-20. "Longest Continuous Transcontinental" claim relies on outdated information. |
| US Route 30 | Atlantic City, NJ to Astoria, OR | ~3,073 | ~3,073 (Continuous) | Shorter than US-20. Highly significant historically but not the longest. |
See the difference? US-20 wins because it's long, continuous, and officially designated as such right now. Those historic claims for US-6 are fascinating trivia, but they don't change the fact that if you want to drive the longest single road in the US today, you follow the US-20 shields.
Beyond the Mileage: What Driving US-20 is Actually Like
Telling you US Route 20 is the answer to "what is the longest road in america" is one thing. But what does driving it *feel* like? Is it just endless cornfields and truck stops? Honestly? Sometimes, yeah. Especially across Iowa and Nebraska, the scenery can get monotonous. Miles of straight road with crops stretching to the horizon. Good podcast territory.
But then you hit the gems:
- Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming): Driving through the park on US-20 (between the East and West entrances) is a highlight. Geysers, bison herds, mountains. Plan for delays due to wildlife (seriously, those bison jams are no joke). Park Entrance Fee: $35/vehicle (valid 7 days).
- Craters of the Moon (Idaho): Surreal volcanic landscape. Feels like another planet. Well worth the detour off US-20 (about 18 miles south of Arco). Entrance Fee: $20/vehicle.
- Oregon's Cascade Mountains: The climb over Santiam Pass (elevation 4,817 ft) is stunning, especially around Sisters and Bend. Huge pine forests, volcanic peaks (Three Sisters, Mt. Washington). Watch for winter weather closures.
- New England Charm (Massachusetts/New York): Historic towns, rolling hills, the Finger Lakes wineries near Seneca Falls, NY (a short detour south off US-20). Feels completely different from the West.
- Midwest Icons: The Indiana Dunes National Park near Michigan City (short detour north), the Field of Dreams movie site near Dyersville, Iowa (about an hour south of US-20).
Don't expect constant glamor. Long stretches, especially in the Great Plains, are functional highways connecting small towns. Gas stations, diners, motels. It's Americana, sometimes faded, sometimes vibrant. Cell service can be spotty, especially in rural Wyoming and Oregon. Download offline maps.
Planning Your Drive? Crucial Practical Info
- Time Commitment: Driving non-stop is impossible. Realistically, plan 7-10 days minimum just for driving, averaging 8-10 hours/day. To actually *experience* places? 3-4 weeks is ideal. I tried doing major sections in two weeks once... it was exhausting and I missed so much.
- Vehicle: A reliable car is essential. You'll face mountain passes, temperature extremes, and vast distances between services. Get a check-up before you go (tires, fluids, brakes).
- Accommodation: Mix of motels, hotels, camping (especially near parks). Book ahead in popular areas like Yellowstone or Bend, OR, especially summer. Small-town motels often offer better value and local flavor.
- Navigation: Don't rely solely on GPS. Get a physical atlas or state maps. US-20 isn't always the fastest route (Interstate 80/90 parallels it closely in many northern sections), but it's the point! Use GPS to find food/lodging off the route.
- Best Time: Late Spring (May-June) or Early Fall (September-October) avoid extreme summer heat/crowds and winter mountain snow/closed passes (especially Santiam Pass in Oregon and Yellowstone passes). July/August is peak season but busiest.
Why Does "What is the Longest Road in America?" Matter?
It's more than trivia. Understanding which road truly holds the title and its route connects to deeper interests people searching for this have:
- Road Trip Planning: People want epic journeys. Knowing US-20 is the longest means it offers the ultimate coast-to-coast *continuous* US highway driving challenge.
- Historical Curiosity: The evolution of the US highway system and the stories behind routes like US-6 and the Lincoln Highway (US-30) are fascinating slices of American development.
- Geographical Understanding: Tracing the route on a map reveals the incredible breadth and diversity of the American landscape.
- Sense of Accomplishment: Completing a drive, even just a significant section, of the longest road holds bragging rights. It's a pilgrimage for some.
Frankly, knowing the difference between the historic claims and the current reality (US-20 wins) saves people time and confusion when researching or planning. That Nebraska Sandhills section? It's surprisingly beautiful in its vast emptiness, but it also feels endless. You definitely need the right mindset.
Your US Route 20 Road Trip Questions Answered (FAQ)
Let's tackle those questions swirling in your head right now. You searched "what is the longest road in america", and now you probably have more:
Q: Is US Route 20 an interstate highway?
A: No, US Route 20 is a U.S. Numbered Highway, part of the older system established in 1926. While sections might run concurrently with Interstates (like I-90 in parts of NY, OH, IL, or I-84 in Oregon) or be upgraded to freeway standards near cities, most of it is a two-lane highway passing through towns and countryside. This is what makes the drive interesting (and sometimes slower!).
Q: Can you drive the entire length of US Route 20 non-stop?
A: Absolutely not. Even driving aggressively for 12 hours a day, it would take roughly 4 full days (84+ hours of pure driving time, ignoring traffic, stops, sleep, etc.). Realistically, it's a multi-week adventure. Do not attempt non-stop – it's dangerous and irresponsible.
Q: Is US Route 20 safe to drive?
A: Generally, yes, like most major highways. However:
- Weather: Mountain passes (Yellowstone, Santiam Pass) can be treacherous or closed in winter. Plains sections face blizzards and high winds.
- Wildlife: Especially in Wyoming (Yellowstone) and Oregon, deer, elk, and moose crossings are common, particularly dawn/dusk.
- Fatigue: Long, monotonous stretches increase drowsiness risk. Take breaks!
- Rural Services: Distances between gas stations or help can be long in the West. Fill up when you see stations in remote areas.
Q: Are there speed limits and tolls?
A:
- Speed Limits: Vary wildly by state and location (rural vs. town). Expect 55-70 mph in rural areas, dropping to 25-45 mph through towns. Obey posted limits – small towns enforce them strictly.
- Tolls: Generally, US-20 itself is toll-free. However, if you use parallel Interstates (like I-90 in NY, MA, OH, IL, IN) or bridges/tunnels near cities to connect or bypass traffic, you might encounter tolls. Research specific bypass routes if avoiding tolls is crucial. The core US-20 route avoids major toll roads.
Q: What about attractions? Is it scenic?
A: It's a mixed bag, which is part of its authentic charm. You get:
- Stunning Scenery: Yellowstone, Oregon Cascades, Finger Lakes, Idaho's volcanic landscapes.
- Interesting Towns: Historic New England villages, Great Lakes industry towns, quirky Midwest stops, Western ranching communities.
- Cultural Slices: Diners, roadside Americana, farmland, national parks.
- Long Stretches of "Just Road": Particularly across Iowa, Nebraska, and Eastern Oregon. Be prepared for this – it's part of the experience of crossing the continent. This isn't the Pacific Coast Highway; it's a working highway.
Q: Why isn't I-90 or I-80 considered the longest road?
A: Interstates like I-90 (3,020 miles from Boston to Seattle) and I-80 (2,899 miles from Teaneck, NJ, to San Francisco) are longer *highway systems*. However:
- They aren't *single* routes with continuous numbering. They bypass towns on high-speed corridors.
- The title "longest road" typically refers to the contiguous US Numbered Highway system routes (like US-20, US-6, US-30), which are older, often pass through towns, and represent a single continuous number.
- US-20 remains the longest single, continuously numbered road entirely within the US borders.
Q: Has anyone actually driven the whole thing?
A: Absolutely! Many road-trippers, adventure seekers, and organizations document the journey. It's a significant undertaking, requiring planning and time. Search online for blogs and videos – there are some great firsthand accounts out there detailing the highs and lows.
So, What's the Verdict? The Longest Road Stands Clear
Cutting through the historical claims and potential confusion, the answer to "what is the longest road in america" is definitively US Route 20. Its 3,365-mile continuous journey from the Atlantic coast of Massachusetts to the Pacific coast of Oregon, traversing 12 diverse states, secures its title. While US Route 6 boasts a longer historical length and US Route 30 carries immense historical weight, neither currently offers a single, continuously signed route longer than US-20 within the United States.
Driving US-20 isn't just about chasing a record; it's about experiencing the immense scale and variety of the American landscape at ground level. It's less about speed and more about the journey itself – the small towns, the changing geography, the unexpected finds, and the sheer endurance of it. It’s raw, sometimes tedious, often beautiful, and always memorable. It truly embodies the idea of a transcontinental trek. Whether you drive a section or dream of the whole thing, knowing you're on the longest road in America adds a certain magic (and maybe a touch of madness) to the miles.
Plan well, respect the road and the towns it passes through, and enjoy the ride. That stretch through eastern Oregon just feels... immense. And finally seeing the Pacific Ocean in Newport after weeks on the road? That’s a feeling you won’t forget. Just don't expect constant glamour – embrace the long stretches and the quiet moments too. That's the real journey of the longest road.
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