Wow did this thread get into the weeds.
For the OP. Do a safe tour like the Great Allegheny Passage / C&O or the Katy. For a shorter trip there is the Greenbrier. and a few others. You will be happy. Your parents will be happy. Show you can be responsible for yourself and they will agree to let you go on more adventurous tours.
IMHO The Selkirk Loop north of Spokane is a very safe road tour. Not many cars at all. a bunch of logging trucks but just don't tell your parents.
