Exploring the United States by road is a beloved pastime for many, offering unforgettable scenery and experiences.
However, not all routes come without risk. Some of America’s highways are notoriously dangerous, with high fatality rates and challenging conditions that can quickly turn a dream vacation into a nightmare.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the most dangerous roads in the country, helping you stay informed and prepared if these routes cross your path.
Here are 10 U.S. road trips to avoid: the country’s most dangerous routes and why.
1. U.S. Route 285, New Mexico
New Mexico’s U.S. Route 285 segment is known for its desolate, hazardous conditions, especially between Vaughn and Roswell.
This isolated part of the highway offers minimal services along vast, open stretches, making it a challenging route for drivers.
Famous locally as “Death Highway” near the village of Malaga, Route 285 has seen numerous traffic fatalities, often involving speeding and dangerous passing.
The route is heavily trafficked by trucks hauling oil and natural gas, adding congestion and increasing accident risks on this notorious stretch of road.
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2. Highway 190, Death Valley National Park
California Highway 190, also known as Death Valley Road, runs through the unforgiving terrain of Death Valley National Park, one of the hottest places on Earth.
In the summer, temperatures here can exceed 120°F or 48℃, turning any mechanical issue into a potential emergency.
Never underestimate the extreme conditions of California Highway 190. This road is so remote, with limited services and hardly any shade. Breakdowns in these parts of the national park can mean a life-or-death scenario!
Survival-level planning is essential when exploring the Death Valley National Park. Check out the National Park Service’s website to plan your visit.
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3. U.S. Highway 50, Nevada
The U.S. Highway 50 in Nevada is called the “loneliest road in America” for a reason. It certainly offers a unique yet challenging American road trip experience.
This route spans over 300 miles, with only five small towns scattered along the way.
Just like in Death Valley National Park, something normally harmless as a blown tire can quickly turn into a disastrous situation around these dangerous roads.
It’s not without its merit, though. The U.S. Highway 50 in Nevada offers a scenic route, from the pines of Tahoe to the red-hued dirt of Utah’s border.
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4. Dalton Highway, Alaska
Stretching 414 miles from Livengood to Deadhorse, the Dalton Highway is a notorious part of the United States’ collection of highways, especially for its inclement weather.
Some call it “the ultimate road trip,” but this isolated, mostly gravel road runs through harsh Alaskan terrain, where icy conditions, freezing temperatures, and scarce services make each mile a struggle.
Used primarily by truckers servicing Arctic oil fields, the Dalton is rugged and remote, demanding that only experienced drivers attempt its treacherous path!
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5. U.S. Route 550, Colorado
Colorado’s U.S. Route 550, or the “Million Dollar Highway,” is popular for its breathtaking scenery. But also its mountain ranges, twisting steep cliffs, and hair-raising challenges.
This stretch of road, especially the 12 miles south of Ouray through Red Mountain Pass, lacks guardrails, leaving drivers with little margin for error along its steep grades and narrow lanes.
Winter conditions make it particularly treacherous, with snowstorms, rockslides, and black ice frequently adding to the danger.
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6. Oh My God Road, Colorado
Oh My God Road, also known as Two Brothers Road or Virginia Canyon Road, is another thrilling yet treacherous drive between Idaho Springs and Central City, Colorado.
Sitting north of the Rocky Mountain National Park, this stretch is famous for its narrow, unguarded lanes, where enormous cliffs and 12% grade sections keep drivers on high alert.
With barely enough room for two cars to pass, distracted driving here can be a serious hazard.
The road’s unpaved, graveled surface is prone to washboarding, which makes navigating its winding path even more precarious.
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7. Interstate 4, Florida
Interstate 4, spanning 132 miles from Daytona Beach through Orlando, was once considered the deadliest road in the United States, with an average of 34 fatal crashes per year.
Frequent construction, narrow lanes, sharp curves, and abrupt merges create a challenging environment, with heavy congestion adding to the risk.
Despite its risks, this route remains a critical corridor, leaving many drivers with no option but to navigate its hazards.
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8. Interstate 95, South Florida
South Florida’s I-95 is another stretch of pernicious road in The Sunshine State, especially near Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
This mile-long stretch records nearly 50 times the fatal crashes of an average highway mile across the country.
A crucial link from Miami up the East Coast to Maine, I-95 carries heavy traffic daily, connecting major cities like New York, Boston, and Washington D.C.
Despite its vital role, the highway’s congestion and rampant aggressive driving make it a particularly hazardous route.
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9. I-95, Rhode Island
Rhode Island may be small, but its segment of I-95 is packed with hazards.
Known for sudden, sharp exit curves and problematic design, this high-speed route often leads to dozens of accidents and several fatalities each year.
Traffic congestion only heightens the risks, as I-95 connects major cities along the East Coast, such as Providence and Warwick.
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10. U.S. Route 49, Mississippi
Spanning from Gulfport to Yazoo City, U.S. Route 49 cuts through central Mississippi, linking cities like Hattiesburg and Jackson before heading into Arkansas.
Known for frequent accidents, Highway 49 belongs to the top 10 most feared roadways in the United States.
Contributing factors include impaired driving, speeding, and limited seatbelt use. Mississippi’s relaxed regulations on phone use and even alcohol consumption while driving also increase accident risks.
Despite its infamous reputation, route 49’s scenic proximity to places like Tuxachanie National Park and De Soto National Park makes it a tourist favorite for phenomenal road trips.
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Final Thoughts
While the U.S. offers many unforgettable road trip opportunities, some highways are extremely dangerous.
From icy roads in Alaska to congested stretches in Florida, these roads can be risky for even the most experienced drivers.
When traversing these roads, remember to prioritize safety by researching your destination, preparing for harsh conditions, and staying alert.
With proper planning and caution, you can enjoy America’s scenic beauty while minimizing the risks these dangerous highways present!
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The USA is known as a country for the free and the brave. But, with much freedom comes a lot of responsibility. Over the past few years, the crime rate in America is slowly rising, with violent crimes increasing. That’s why you should know the most dangerous cities in the United States according to the latest data.
While there can be many reasons crime increases in any country, it is crucial to be aware of which cities see the most crime potential before booking a trip— especially as a solo traveller.
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37 Most Dangerous Cities in the World You Need to Know About
While traveling is one of the greatest joys humans have, certain places need you to take extra precautions. With frequent news stories of violence, kidnappings and gang warfare, it’s hard to ignore the reality that there are dangerous places to travel to.
If you have no idea what the most dangerous cities in the world are, don’t worry — this guide’s got you covered. It’s been compiled using data from the Mexican Council for Public Security and Criminal Justice (MCPSCJ) and sources like The Economist Intelligence Unit.
Whether you’re looking at places to avoid when traveling or just want to stroke your curiosity, you’ll find some of the world’s most dangerous cities below.
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31 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe You Might Want to Avoid
Europe is an incredibly diverse continent and has many beautiful cities. Many of those cities are perfectly set up for tourists, but some are considered more dangerous than others.
What makes a city dangerous? Is it the number of criminal reports? Natural disasters? Scams? Terrorist attacks? Generally, it’s a combination of all of those. Europe is quite lucky to be a continent full of safe and bucket list-worthy destinations. But there will always be some level of risk wherever you go.
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Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.