Looking for a safe spring road trip destination?
The spring flowers will soon be blooming and the temperatures will slowly start to become warmer. You may have likely exhausted all the staycations and local trips available to keep yourself entertained during the pandemic. What could be a more perfect time to take a road trip? If you have access to a car or better yet, an RV, you must take advantage and hit the road for a spring road trip.
Of course, in the current situation of the country and COVID-19 we should all make good choices and stay distant from others as much as possible. I’d suggest carefully choosing your destinations and limit them to outdoor areas where you are less likely to cross the paths of others. For example, large national parks, state parks, and coastal areas during the off-season. Simply make good choices.
If you are too far of a drive for a day trip and don’t have an RV or a tent then choose a place to stay that is reputable for their cleaning practices. For instance, on Airbnb look for a place that is offering “enhanced cleaning” and “self check-in” during the pandemic. You can find this written in the listing description.
Enhanced cleaning or not, when you get to the place you book, give it a good cleaning yourself just be extra safe. Be safe and have an amazing time!
Spring Road Trips in Massachusetts
Cape Cod National Seashore
Address: 99 Marconi Site Road, Wellfleet, MA 02667
I love the value you get when you visit the 40 miles of beaches at Cape Cod’s National Seashore. For instance, if you visit Cape Cod in the summer, you’ll notice that most beaches charge high fees for parking. Sometimes you would end up paying $20.00 – $25.00 just for one beach during the tourist season. However, the national seashore gives you the ability to hop from beach to beach (6 total) for the price of one! All of the beaches are stunning, but my personal favorites are Nauset Light Beach and Macaroni Beach.
Access Park Information – By paying the $25.00 fee you are able to park one vehicle and access all 6 beaches throughout the day. Keep the receipt with you. Fees are collected from late spring throughout the end of September. If you travel to the seashore in the off-season then you can park for free.
While you are there, consider hiking the Great Island Trail starting in Wellfleet. The routes are either the 3.9 mile tavern loop or 8.8 mile loop to Jeremy Point. Either way you will get to experience that vast beaches and scenic views.
Winter Island Park in Salem
Address: 50 Winter Island Rd, Salem, MA 01970
This is a surprisingly overlooked area of Salem. Most likely because it is a bit of hike from the main tourist area. During the late spring in 2018, I ventured over to Winter Island on foot to see what was there.
In early May, the walk is very pleasant and you will find flower petals from the blossoming trees lining your way. One you get over to Winter Island, you’ll spot a little sign that says Wakiki Beach. There you will find a charming little beach with small walking paths on either side of the bank for an easy hikes towards the lighthouse or along the coastline.
I was surprised by the fact that I had the entire beach to myself. Not a soul was around during the off-season. This would be an excellent place to visit and feel safe while doing so.
Mount Greylock, Berkshire Mountains
Address: Mount Greylock State Reservation, 30 Rockwell Rd, Lanesborough, MA 01237
Visit the highest point in Massachusetts! At 3,491 ft. tall, Mount Greylock has plenty of 90-mile scenic views, moderate level trails, memorial, and a lodge. The easiest and shortest ascent route from base to summit of Mount Greylock is via Cheshire Harbor Trail. There are many routes to the summit. You can choose the best one for your skill level by checking All Trails. Read the reviews to make the most informed decision.
Spring Road Trips in Vermont
Lake Willoughby
Address: Lake Willoughby, Westmore, VT
Tranquility in itself Lake Willoughby is a hikers wonderland. While you are there, you must hike the Mount Pisgah Trail as it is known for its incredible views. You can even bring your pup along!
Bingham Falls in Stowe
Address: 5785 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672-4808
Looking for a simple hike to a waterfall? Look no further than Bingham Falls. This is just a short half a mile hike located in Smugglers’ Notch State Park. Keep in mind if that if you want to walk down to the falls, it does get a bit steep as you descend if you have children along. This is a beautiful destination to take in the scenery and relax. I would recommend visiting during the off-season and on a weekday to truly experience the hike without crowds.
Lake Champlain
Address: Burlington, VT 05401
Located in Burlington, Vermont this lake is the 6th largest lake in the United States. The area is a wonderful road trip destination to experience the natural beauty and numerous expansive vistas. The sunsets in the area are known for being exceptional as well. Visit their website to learn more about local attractions in Burlington.
Spring Road Trips in New Hampshire
North Conway
Address: North Conway Village Map & Guide, North Conway, NH 03860
I visited this area during my 30th birthday in the dead of winter. We had a fabulous time and even did a deep snow hike. I can only imagine how gorgeous this area is in the springtime with all the wildflowers in the area. You must do some hiking while you are in the area. Black Cap Trail offers incredible views of the wildflowers and of course the main attraction, the White Mountains.
Franconia Notch State Park
Address: Flume Gorge, Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln, NH 03251
Another destination nestled in the heart of the White Mountains is Franconia Notch State Park. This area is home to Flume Gorge and Cannon Mountain which were formed over 200 million years ago. There are numerous attractions and campgrounds in the area. You can view their website and brochure
for more information.
Kancamagus Highway and White Mountain National Forest
Address: 33 Kancamagus Hwy, Conway, NH 03818
What would a road trip be without a drive with incredible scenic views? The Kancamagus Highway has several pull off points for just that purpose. The highway is NH Route 112 spanning east to west from Lincoln to Conway. Recognized as a Natural Scenic Byway, you can drive the full 34.5 miles if you wish. Tip: This drive is fantastic during the fall foliage. This area isn’t just for driving. Stop and enjoy a nice hike or a picnic. View the White Mountains website for more information.
Spring Road Trips in Maine
Acadia National Park
Address: GPS coordinates 44.409286 -68.247501
This park is in the top 10 of the most visited national parks in the United States due to the breathtaking coastal and mountain scenery. During the peak season May-October there is an entrance fee. However, during spring from March-April you can visit for free! There is so much to do in the area of 158 miles of hiking trails, stargazing, camping, climbing and more. View their website to stay updated on park information.
Chimney Pond Trail, Baxter State Park
Address: Chimney Pond Trail, Millinocket, ME 04462
This out and back trail is located near Mount Katahdin, which is the grand finale of the Appalachian Trail. Hiking up Mount Katahdin is not for the faint of heart as it is quite brutal. Thankfully the Chimney Pond Trail while a bit of a scramble is a far more moderate substitute. Enjoy incredible views of the lake and the mountain without suffering the high winds on Katahdin. If you require an easy trail, I would refer you to reading reviews on All Trails to find the best fit for you. As always, plan ahead and take proper precautions before any big hike.
Marginal Way
Address: Marginal Way, Ogunquit, ME 03907
Do you need a more low key destination? The Marginal Way in Ogunquit is an excellent option for just that. This walking path is only 1.25 miles long but has some of the most jaw dropping views of the Maine coastline that you will ever experience. Grab your camera, pack a picnic, and hit the road! Due to the pandemic there are guidelines you must follow during your visit. The most current information can be found on their website.
Hello everyone! I am a Boston based blogger that loves all things travel and lifestyle. You can usually find me working away at my university job, snapping pictures, thrifting, or trying out some new recipes.
Tracy says
A road trip in this area is on my bucket list. Thanks for all the tips for hiking 😁
Janelle (Simply Nel Belle) says
Definitely some must-see destinations!