As a professional truck driver and founder of TC Legacy Logistics, I’ve traveled through nearly every corner of the continental U.S. With over a million miles under my belt, some highways have simply stood out — not just for their scenery, but for their smooth flow, smart logistics, and driver-friendly stops.

In this post, I’m sharing my all-time favorite trucking routes — routes that every long-haul trucker should experience at least once. Whether you're planning a solo cross-country haul or dispatching a team for regional freight delivery, these highways are more than just roads — they're part of the American trucking story.



🚚 1. I-40: Coast-to-Coast Convenience with Classic American Vibes

Route: Barstow, CA to Wilmington, NC

Why I Love It:

The I-40 corridor is one of the most reliable coast-to-coast routes in the U.S., cutting across diverse landscapes like the Mojave Desert, the Texas plains, and the Smoky Mountains. I love it for its logistics efficiency — plenty of truck stops, fueling stations, and rest areas — and its smooth, predictable flow.

It’s also rich in culture and scenery, passing through Nashville, Little Rock, and Albuquerque, giving you a taste of America with every mile.

Trending Keywords: long haul trucking routes, I-40 trucking, cross-country logistics, scenic trucking highways, efficient truck driver routes

🏞️ 2. I-70: The Most Beautiful Drive in Trucking

Route: Cove Fort, UT to Baltimore, MD

Why I Love It:

Hands down, I-70 through Colorado and Utah is one of the most breathtaking drives you’ll ever experience behind the wheel. The stretch between Grand Junction and Denver feels like driving through a postcard — especially through Glenwood Canyon and the Rocky Mountains.

Yes, the elevation and curves can be tricky, especially in winter. But when the weather's clear, it’s prime-time for scenic trucking.

Trending Keywords: trucker road trip, scenic trucking routes, Rocky Mountain trucking, I-70 driver tips, mountain driving for truckers

🌾 3. I-80: The Lifeline of the Midwest

Route: San Francisco, CA to Teaneck, NJ

Why I Love It:

I-80 is one of the most traveled freight corridors in the nation, making it essential for logistics companies moving coast-to-coast. From Chicago to Des Moines to Salt Lake City, it connects key supply chain hubs.

It’s a great route for newer drivers to gain experience and for veterans to knock out reliable miles. Plus, the network of truck-friendly amenities makes it easy to plan stops and meet deadlines.

Trending Keywords: I-80 freight corridor, Midwest trucking routes, supply chain trucking, trucker route planning, logistics corridor USA

🌴 4. I-10: The Southern Gateway

Route: Santa Monica, CA to Jacksonville, FL

Why I Love It:

Running through the deep south and the sunbelt, I-10 offers weather-friendly driving in the winter, which is why it's a favorite for seasonal runs. I especially enjoy hauling freight across Texas, where I-10 stretches for over 800 miles. Plus, the truck stops in Louisiana and Mississippi have some of the best roadside food you’ll find anywhere.

It’s also a hot route for cross-border freight and port logistics, linking Mexico and Gulf Coast shipping lanes.

Trending Keywords: I-10 trucking route, southern freight shipping, port logistics USA, cross-border trucking, winter trucking routes

🌲 5. US-101: Pacific Coast Beauty with Regional Freight Potential

Route: Olympia, WA to Los Angeles, CA

Why I Love It:

While not as fast-paced as the interstates, US-101 offers an unmatched coastal drive — with solid regional freight opportunities between Oregon and California. It’s best for light or specialty freight, but if you ever get the chance to take this route, do it.

Rolling past redwoods, cliffs, and beaches, it's a reminder of why we love the open road.

Trending Keywords: regional trucking West Coast, Pacific Northwest freight, US-101 drive, specialty freight hauling, scenic truck driving routes

🔄 Honorable Mentions

  • I-55: Great for north-south shipping between Chicago and New Orleans.

  • I-95: Busy but crucial for East Coast logistics.

  • I-35: A must-use for freight coming through Texas and into the Midwest.

🧭 What Makes a Route “Great” for Me?

When I call a route my favorite, I’m looking at more than just the view. Here’s what I factor in:

  • Highway infrastructure

  • Parking and rest stops

  • Traffic patterns

  • Scenic value

  • Safety for trucks

  • Load consistency and freight volume

At TC Legacy Logistics, we strategically choose routes that balance efficiency, safety, and driver comfort. The routes I listed above check all the boxes.

🏁 Final Thoughts: The Road Shapes the Driver

Each of these routes has helped shape who I am as a driver and business owner. Whether it's the beauty of I-70 or the hustle of I-80, these highways have delivered lessons, challenges, and memories.

And if you’re looking for a freight partner who knows the road inside and out, TC Legacy Logistics is built on real-world driving experience and a deep respect for the miles it takes to move America.