Top EV Road Trips to Take in Summer 2025

Introduction

Summer 2025 is the perfect time to plan an EV road trip. Electric vehicles are more popular than ever. Charging networks have grown, making long trips easier. You can explore scenic routes without worrying about gas stops. An electric vehicle route reduces pollution and lets you enjoy nature.

In this article, we cover the top EV road trips for Summer 2025. Each trip includes details on EV charging stations, route length, highlights, and tips. We also share a table comparing key features of each route. By the end, you will feel ready to plan your own eco-friendly travel adventure.

What Is an EV Road Trip?

An electric vehicle road trip is simply a journey taken in a fully electric car. Rather than relying on gasoline, the vehicle uses electricity stored in batteries. Modern EVs can travel well over 200 miles on a single charge. Along the route, drivers stop at EV charging stations to replenish battery power. These chargers vary in speed from Level 2 chargers (slower) to DC fast chargers (rapid).

EV road trips share many similarities with traditional trips. You still pack luggage, plan stops, and explore new places. The main difference is that you factor in charging times. Many travelers find the breaks at stations relaxing: it is a chance to grab a snack, stretch legs, and enjoy local scenery. Overall, an electric vehicle road trip balances driving fun with sustainable choices.

What Makes EV Road Trips Unique?

Unlike gas cars, electric vehicles rely on charging stations. In Summer 2025, many highways have fast chargers every 50–100 miles. This makes it easier to plan stops and enjoy local sights. EV road trips combine travel with sustainability. You reduce your carbon footprint and support clean energy.

Charging breaks become part of the adventure. During a 20–30 minute fast charge, you can stretch your legs, grab a snack, or see a nearby view. Many charging sites are near cafes, parks, or tourist spots. This makes travel relaxed and fun.

Top EV Road Trips for Summer 2025

1. West Coast Coastal Drive (California, Oregon, Washington)

Spanning roughly 1,300 miles from San Diego, CA, to Seattle, WA, this EV route follows the Pacific Coast—featuring beaches, cliffs, redwood forests, and quaint towns.

Route Highlights

• San Diego beaches and Balboa Park
• Los Angeles coast and Santa Monica Pier
• Big Sur cliffs and Bixby Creek Bridge
• Monterey Bay Aquarium and Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Redwood National Park (Northern California)
• Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
• Cannon Beach’s Haystack Rock
• Olympic National Park (near Seattle)

EV Charging Stations

• Southern California: ample chargers in San Diego and Los Angeles
• Big Sur area: limited chargers—plan stops in Paso Robles or Salinas
• Near Redwood National Park: chargers available in Eureka and Arcata
• Oregon coast: chargers in Coos Bay, Florence, and Cannon Beach
• Washington coast: chargers in Aberdeen and near Olympic National Park

Distance and Timing

• Total: 1,300 miles
• Recommended duration: 7–10 days (≈120–185 miles/day)
• Ideal charging stops: San Diego → Los Angeles → San Luis Obispo → Eureka → Coos Bay → Cannon Beach → Forks (for Olympic NP)

Tips

• Book lodging with Level 2 or fast chargers onsite or nearby.
• Use apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint to check charger availability.
• Carry snacks and water for longer stretches between chargers.

2. Route 66 EV Adventure (Chicago to Los Angeles)

Historic Route 66 spans roughly 2,400 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles. In Summer 2025, many towns along the route offer EV charging. This trip combines nostalgia with modern EV planning.

Route Highlights

• Chicago: Millennium Park and Willis Tower
• Springfield, IL: Abraham Lincoln sites
• Tulsa, OK: Art Deco architecture
• Amarillo, TX: Cadillac Ranch
• Albuquerque, NM: Old Town scenery
• Flagstaff, AZ: Near Grand Canyon National Park
• Kingman, AZ: Historic Route 66 main street
• Santa Monica Pier, LA: Famous end sign

EV Charging Stations

• Chicago suburbs: numerous fast chargers
• Springfield & Tulsa: chargers near main highways
• Amarillo: chargers by I-40 and motels
• Albuquerque: chargers downtown and near Old Town
• Flagstaff: chargers near tourist areas
• I-40 corridor (AZ & CA): chargers every ~100 miles

Distance and Timing

• Total: 2,400 miles
• Recommended: 10–14 days (≈170–240 miles/day)
• Ideal charging stops: Chicago → Springfield → Oklahoma City → Amarillo → Albuquerque → Flagstaff → Barstow → Santa Monica

Tips

• Carry a Route 66 guidebook or app for historical context.
• Enjoy classic diners and motels for a retro vibe.
• Charge in small towns and photograph old Route 66 signs.

3. Blue Ridge Parkway Loop (Virginia and North Carolina)

Spanning about 469 miles (plus Skyline Drive for a ~550-mile loop), this EV-friendly route winds through the Appalachians with scenic overlooks, mountain towns, and outdoor attractions.

Route Highlights

• Shenandoah NP & Skyline Drive, VA
• Maggie Valley, NC (craft breweries, cabins)
• Asheville, NC (arts district, Biltmore Estate)
• Great Smoky Mountains NP near Cherokee, NC
• Cherokee → Gatlinburg, TN loop (waterfall trails)
• Roanoke, VA (Mill Mountain star)

EV Charging Stations

• Shenandoah area: chargers in Front Royal & Luray
• Roanoke, VA: fast chargers near downtown
• Asheville, NC: numerous chargers around Biltmore & downtown
• Cherokee, NC: Level 2 chargers in town
• Franklin & Bryson City, NC: chargers by local businesses

Distance and Timing

• Total: ~550 miles
• Recommended: 5–7 days (≈80–110 miles/day)
• Ideal charging stops: Front Royal → Roanoke → Asheville → Cherokee → Franklin

Tips

• Drive early or late to avoid midday traffic on Skyline Drive.
• Pack layers—mountain weather changes quickly.
• Book lodging with EV chargers or within 5 miles of one.

4. Pacific Northwest National Parks Circuit (Washington, Oregon, Idaho)

Begin in Seattle and loop through Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier, Columbia River Gorge, Oregon Coast, Crater Lake, and Coeur d’Alene. This 1,200-mile EV trip showcases varied landscapes.

Route Highlights

• Olympic National Park: Hoh Rain Forest and Ruby Beach
• Mount Rainier National Park: Paradise and Sunrise
• Columbia River Gorge: Multnomah Falls and scenic viewpoints
• Oregon Coast: Cannon Beach, Newport, Lincoln City
• Crater Lake National Park: vivid blue lake views
• Bend, Oregon: breweries and lava fields
• Coeur d’Alene, Idaho: Lake Coeur d’Alene and mountain trails
• North Cascades National Park near Winthrop

EV Charging Stations

• Seattle and Tacoma: abundant chargers
• Near Olympic NP: Port Angeles and Sequim
• Mount Rainier area: Ashford
• Columbia River Gorge: Hood River and The Dalles
• Oregon Coast: Cannon Beach, Newport, Brookings
• Crater Lake: limited chargers near Klamath Falls—plan ahead
• Bend: many downtown chargers
• Coeur d’Alene: downtown and lakefront
• North Cascades: Winthrop and Twisp

Distance and Timing

• Total: 1,200 miles
• Recommended: 10–12 days (100–150 miles/day)
• Ideal charging stops: Seattle → Port Angeles → Ashford → Hood River → Newport → Bend → Klamath Falls → Coeur d’Alene → Winthrop

Tips

• Check road conditions—some passes may still have snow in June
• Book campgrounds or lodges early; they fill quickly
• Carry a backup Level 2 charger and charging adapters

Planning and Charging Essentials

Good planning makes any Summer 2025 EV trip easier. Start by mapping your route and noting EV charging stations. Websites like Alternative Fuels Data Center list federal chargers. State tourism sites often publish local charger maps. Print or download maps in case you lose cellphone signal.

Pack essentials: charging cables, adapters, and a roadside emergency kit. Make sure your EV is updated with the latest software. Also check tire pressure, fluids, and brake pads. If your EV has a heat pump or eco mode, use these settings to improve efficiency.

Consider overnight charging. Many hotels now offer Level 2 chargers. Booking stays with included charging saves time. If you plan long stretches between towns, pick lodgings near fast chargers. Keep a credit card or charger membership app ready; some networks require a paid subscription. Try to arrive at charging stations when fewer cars are there, such as late morning or early afternoon.

Finally, check local laws for lane access. Some states allow EVs to use carpool lanes even with one person. This can save time in traffic. Review any toll discounts offered to EV drivers. Doing this groundwork ensures your electric vehicle road trip is smooth and stress-free.

Tips for a Smooth EV Road Trip

EV driving differs from gas cars plan well to stay calm:

• Keep your battery between 20 % and 80 % for longevity. Use fast chargers when you need a quick top-up; use Level 2 chargers at hotels or restaurants for longer stays.
• Download apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint for live station status and locations. Always have a backup charger in mind in case one goes offline.
• Remember that extreme temperatures reduce range—plan shorter segments on cold mornings or hot afternoons.
• Pack snacks, drinks, and a light blanket. Use each stop to stretch.
• If traveling with others, take turns charging so someone can relax.
• Stay flexible if a charger is busy, wait or head to a nearby station.

These small changes keep stress low and make your EV road trip more enjoyable.

Comparative Table: Top EV Road Trips

Conclusion

Summer 2025 offers fantastic opportunities for EV road trips. The West Coast Coastal Drive, Route 66 EV Adventure, Blue Ridge Parkway Loop, Pacific Northwest NP Circuit, and Southern Florida Coastal Loop each provide unique scenery and well-placed EV charging stations. By planning routes, packing essentials, and driving efficiently, you can burn less carbon and enjoy an eco-friendly travel experience.

These trips show that electric vehicles are more practical than ever for long journeys. With growing charging networks and better EV models, you can focus on the fun parts—beautiful views and local culture—rather than worrying about range. Choose a route, start planning, and get ready for the ride of your life.