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If you love overlanding and rooftop tent camping, the U.S. offers some of the most scenic and adventurous routes in the world. From desert landscapes to rugged mountain passes, these trails provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re looking for off-the-grid camping, technical trails, or breathtaking views, here are the 20 best overland roads in the U.S. to explore with your roof tent.

1. White Rim Trail (Utah)

Located in Canyonlands National Park, this 100-mile trail offers stunning desert landscapes and breathtaking red rock formations. The terrain varies from moderate to rough, making it an exciting challenge for overlanders. Remote campsites along the way provide the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Utah wilderness. Permits are required, so plan ahead to secure your adventure.

2. Alpine Loop (Colorado)

This 65-mile journey through the San Juan Mountains is a must for those who love high-elevation adventures. The rugged terrain features rocky paths, river crossings, and abandoned ghost towns that offer a glimpse into Colorado’s rich mining history. The breathtaking mountain scenery makes this a premier overlanding destination.

3. Mojave Road (California)

Stretching 140 miles across the Mojave National Preserve, this historic trail is perfect for those seeking a desert adventure. The road takes travelers through vast Joshua tree forests, rocky landscapes, and ancient petroglyphs. The remote nature of the trail ensures a secluded camping experience under the stars.

4. Rubicon Trail (California)

A legendary 22-mile route in the Sierra Nevada, the Rubicon Trail is one of the most famous off-road trails in the country. It features extreme rock crawling sections and stunning alpine scenery. Though challenging, the experience is highly rewarding for skilled drivers looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure.

5. Arizona Backcountry Discovery Route (BDR)

This 750-mile route traverses Arizona from north to south, offering a mix of desert, mountain, and forest terrain. Overlanders will encounter dramatic landscapes ranging from saguaro-filled deserts to lush pine forests. The route is an epic backcountry adventure suitable for both beginners and experienced travelers.

6. Dalton Highway (Alaska)

For those seeking a true remote adventure, the Dalton Highway is an epic 414-mile journey from the Arctic Circle to Prudhoe Bay. The unpaved road traverses some of Alaska’s most breathtaking wilderness, with wildlife sightings and stunning tundra landscapes. Overlanders must prepare for extreme conditions and carry extra fuel and supplies.

7. Magruder Corridor (Idaho-Montana)

This rugged 100-mile route cuts through the Bitterroot National Forest, providing an untouched wilderness experience. With no services for miles, it’s the perfect trail for those who crave solitude and self-sufficiency. Creek crossings and forested landscapes make this an exhilarating ride.

8. Black Bear Pass (Colorado)

At only 9 miles long, Black Bear Pass is one of the most scenic yet dangerous overland trails in Colorado. With extreme switchbacks and rocky descents, it offers unparalleled views of Telluride. This trail is not for the faint of heart but promises an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers.

9. Continental Divide Trail (New Mexico to Montana)

Spanning 3,100 miles, this trail follows the Rocky Mountains from New Mexico to Montana. The route consists of mixed dirt, gravel, and some pavement, making it a diverse overlanding experience. As one of the ultimate cross-country adventures, this trail offers varying landscapes and challenging sections.

10. Great Smoky Mountain Overland Route (Tennessee/North Carolina)

This 150-mile trail winds through the Great Smoky Mountains, offering a mix of forest roads and river crossings. Overlanders can enjoy Appalachian wilderness, cascading waterfalls, and secluded campsites along the way. This is a great route for those looking to explore the East Coast’s natural beauty.

11. Trans-America Trail (TAT)

Covering over 5,000 miles coast to coast, the TAT is one of the most legendary overland trails in the U.S. It features a combination of dirt roads, forest trails, and scenic byways, making it ideal for long-term adventure seekers who want to traverse multiple states.

12. Utah Backcountry Discovery Route (BDR)

This 871-mile trail takes travelers through Utah’s most iconic landscapes, including desert arches, deep canyons, and breathtaking rock formations. Seasonal snow and rocky terrain add an extra layer of adventure to this already exciting route.

13. El Camino del Diablo (Arizona)

A 130-mile trail through the Sonoran Desert, this historic route offers deep sand and rugged terrain. Its remote location near the U.S.-Mexico border makes it a secluded and challenging trail for experienced overlanders looking for solitude.

14. Washington Backcountry Discovery Route (BDR)

Spanning over 600 miles, this trail leads adventurers through lush Pacific Northwest forests, rivers, and high-elevation mountain passes. Overlanders will appreciate the variety of terrain and the dramatic views of Mt. Rainier along the way.

15. Denali Highway (Alaska)

This 135-mile gravel road takes travelers through the wild tundra and river valleys of Denali National Park. The open landscapes and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit for overlanders who love Alaska’s remote beauty.

16. Old Spanish Trail (Southwest U.S.)

A historic 1,200-mile trade route spanning New Mexico, Arizona, California, and Nevada, this trail is perfect for desert overlanders. The combination of vast open landscapes, rugged terrain, and historical significance makes it an exciting adventure.

17. Alpine Tunnel Road (Colorado)

This 15-mile high-altitude trail takes travelers through stunning mountain scenery and past an abandoned railroad tunnel. The rugged and rocky terrain provides a taste of Colorado’s rich mining history.

18. Kentucky Adventure Trail

A 900-mile mix of dirt roads and forest trails, this trail offers Appalachian beauty, hidden waterfalls, and lush woodlands. It’s a fantastic East Coast overlanding option with a variety of landscapes to explore.

19. Big Bend Ranch State Park Trails (Texas)

Located along the Texas-Mexico border, this route features multiple trails through rocky desert terrain. The solitude and stunning desert beauty make this a fantastic spot for overlanders seeking a remote experience.

20. Mojave National Preserve Backroads (California)

Covering over 100 miles of desert landscape, this route takes travelers through ghost towns, volcanic craters, and Joshua tree forests. The rugged terrain and historical sites make this an exciting destination for overland exploration.

Looking for your next overland adventure? Start with these epic trails and experience the best rooftop tent camping destinations the U.S. has to offer!