The widest highways in the world

From New Jersey to China, we invite you to explore these fascinating facts about the widest highways in the world to date.

Getting stuck in traffic often makes us wish there were more lanes to allow cars to move more freely. But have you ever wondered which is the widest highway in the world?

Although there’s some debate over which one takes the top spot, whether by number of lanes or physical width, some of the contenders might surprise you. From New Jersey to China, we invite you to explore these fascinating facts about the widest highways in the world to date.

The Widest Highways in the World

New Jersey Turnpike, United States – 18 lanes

This highway was inaugurated in 1951 and spans 188 km. Not all of its stretch features 18 lanes; in some sections, the number ranges from 4 to 14. However, in the segments that connect to Exits 14 and 15E, the number of lanes expands to 18, earning it a notable place on this list.

King’s Highway 401, Canada – 18 lanes

Stretching 828 km, this is the most heavily trafficked highway in Canada. It was opened in 1953 with just two lanes, but due to its high usage, the Canadian government decided to expand it in 1963, reaching up to 12 lanes in some of the busiest sections.

One of the most congested segments is near Toronto Pearson International Airport, where 6 additional lanes were added to relieve traffic. As a result, that section of the highway reaches a total of 18 lanes.

Naypyidaw Highway, Myanmar – 20 lanes

The government of Myanmar built a 20-lane highway to connect the Parliament building with the main city. With a total length of 586.7 km, it was inaugurated in 2010. However, the road does not meet international standards for design, construction, or safety, and has recorded a high number of accidents since its opening.

Interstate 10, United States – 26 lanes

Known as the Katy Freeway, the I-10 was originally built in the 1960s with between 6 and 8 lanes. However, growing traffic exceeding 200,000 vehicles per day, led to its expansion, adding another 8 lanes and bringing the total to 16.

In the early 2000s, special lanes such as HOV (high-occupancy vehicle) and express lanes were added to ease congestion. Today, the Katy Freeway stretches 1,412 km across Texas and features 12 main lanes, reaching up to 26 lanes in some of its widest sections—making it one of the widest highways in the world.

G4 Beijing–Hong Kong–Macau Expressway, China – 50 lanes

While 50 lanes may seem like a record, the G4 Expressway in China reaches this number only at the toll plaza. The rest of the highway, which spans 2,272.65 km, typically features 20 lanes (10 in each direction). Even so, it remains one of the widest highways in China and plays a crucial role in the country’s road network.

Determining the world’s widest highway depends on several factors. If total lane count—including service roads—is considered, the Katy Freeway in Texas takes the lead. However, Toronto’s Highway 401 is a strong contender with its 18 continuous lanes in some sections. Meanwhile, the G4 Expressway in China deserves an honorable mention for its record-setting toll plaza width.

So, which one is the winner?