Known as the "Main Street of America" or the "Mother Road," Route 66 was one of the original highways in the U.S. Highway System, established in 1926. Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, it spanned a total of 2,448 miles. Route 66 became a symbol of freedom and the open road, inspiring countless songs, stories, and even a television series.
The Pan-American Highway is a network of roads stretching across the Americas, from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, in the north to Ushuaia, Argentina, in the south. At about 19,000 miles long, it is the world’s longest "motorable road," although a small section in Panama known as the Darién Gap is not passable by traditional vehicles.
The Silk Road was an ancient network of trade routes that connected the East and West, facilitating not only commerce but also cultural exchanges. It began in China and stretched through Asia to the Mediterranean Sea, playing a significant role in the economic, cultural, and political interactions between these regions for many centuries.
Germany’s Autobahn is famous for having no federally mandated speed limit for certain classes of vehicles. This network of high-speed highways was developed in the early 20th century and played a crucial role during World War II. Today, it continues to be a vital part of Germany’s infrastructure, known for its engineering excellence and efficiency.
The Trans-Canada Highway is one of the longest national highways in the world, stretching from Victoria, British Columbia, to St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. Covering over 4,860 miles, it connects all ten provinces and serves as a major route for commerce and tourism across Canada.
The Great Ocean Road in Australia is one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, running along the southeastern coast of the country. Built by returned soldiers between 1919 and 1932 and dedicated to soldiers killed during World War I, it stretches for about 151 miles from Torquay to Allansford.
The Alaska Highway, also known as the Alcan Highway, was constructed during World War II to connect the contiguous United States to Alaska through Canada. Completed in 1942, it spans approximately 1,390 miles from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction, Alaska. It remains a crucial route for travel and trade in North America.
The Garden Route is a picturesque stretch of the South African coastline, running from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape. Known for its stunning scenery, diverse ecosystems, and outdoor activities, the route is a major tourist attraction, showcasing the natural beauty of South Africa.
The Karakoram Highway, often referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World, is one of the highest paved roads on the planet. It connects Pakistan and China through the Karakoram mountain range, spanning approximately 800 miles from Hasan Abdal in Pakistan to Kashgar in China. The highway is a marvel of engineering and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
The James W. Dalton Highway, commonly referred to as the Dalton Highway, is one of the most remote and challenging roads in North America. Stretching 414 miles from Livengood, Alaska, to Prudhoe Bay, it was initially built as a supply road for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System. The highway traverses through some of Alaska’s most rugged and stunning landscapes, making it a popular route for adventurous travelers.