America’s vast landscape offers many scenic drives that showcase the country’s diverse natural beauty. From coastal routes to mountain passes, these scenic byways provide unforgettable road trip experiences.
Buckle up and get ready to explore 20 of the most breathtaking drives the U.S. has to offer.
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
This 50-mile marvel cuts through the heart of Glacier National Park, offering jaw- dropping views of glacial lakes and rugged mountain peaks. The road’s hairpin turns, and dizzying drop-offs add thrill to the journey, while pull-outs allow drivers to safely soak in the alpine scenery.
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia
Stretching 469 miles along the spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this parkway is a leaf-peeper’s paradise, especially in autumn. The route connects Shenandoah National Park with Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering a vast variety of Appalachian culture and natural beauty along the way.
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Pacific Coast Highway, California
California’s iconic Highway 1 hugs the rugged coastline, offering dramatic ocean views and access to charming coastal towns. The stretch from Monterey to Big Sur is particularly spectacular, with winding roads, towering cliffs, and the possibility of spotting whales off the coast.
Hana Highway, Hawaii
This 64-mile route on Maui is short but sweet, packing in 620 curves and 59 bridges as it winds through lush rainforests and past cascading waterfalls. The Road to Hana, as it’s known, is as much about the journey as the destination, with numerous stops for tropical scenery and swimming holes.
Beartooth Highway, Montana, and Wyoming
Often called the most beautiful drive in America, this 68-mile road climbs to nearly 11,000 feet, offering sweeping views of the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains. The highway is typically open from late May to mid-October, weather permitting, and provides access to Yellowstone National Park.
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Overseas Highway, Florida
This 113-mile highway island hops through the Florida Keys, offering a unique ‘driving on water’ experience. The Seven Mile Bridge, one of the longest in the world, is a highlight, providing panoramic views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
Skyline Drive, Virginia
Running 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park, Skyline Drive offers stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. The road’s 75 scenic overlooks provide ample opportunities to spot wildlife and admire the changing seasons.
Route 12, Utah
This 124-mile road takes drivers through some of Utah’s most spectacular landscapes, including Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks. The stretch known as the Hogsback is particularly thrilling, with the road perched atop a narrow ridge with steep drop-offs on both sides.
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San Juan Skyway, Colorado
This 236-mile loop showcases the best of the San Juan Mountains, passing through historic mining towns and offering views of 14,000-foot peaks. The stretch known as the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton is especially scenic, with hairpin turns and breathtaking vistas.
Acadia All-American Road, Maine
This 40-mile route winds through Acadia National Park, offering views of rugged coastline, granite cliffs, and dense forests. The road includes a loop around Mount Desert Island and a drive up Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast.
Natchez Trace Parkway, Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi
This 444-mile route follows a historic travel corridor used by Native Americans and early settlers. The parkway offers a peaceful drive through lush forests, farmlands, and historic sites, with numerous hiking trails and picnic areas along the way.
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Trail Ridge Road, Colorado
Cutting through Rocky Mountain National Park, this 48-mile road is the highest continuous paved road in the United States, reaching an elevation of 12,183 feet. The drive offers expansive views of the Rockies and opportunities to spot elk, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife.
Seward Highway, Alaska
This 127-mile road connects Anchorage to Seward, showcasing Alaska’s diverse landscapes, from towering mountains to glacial valleys. The drive along Turnagain Arm offers chances to spot beluga whales and Dall sheep, while numerous hiking trails provide opportunities to explore the wilderness.
North Shore Scenic Drive, Minnesota
Hugging the northwestern shore of Lake Superior, this 154-mile byway offers stunning views of the largest freshwater lake in the world. The route passes through eight state parks, providing access to rocky beaches, waterfalls, and dense forests.
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Brandywine Valley Scenic Byway, Delaware and Pennsylvania
This 12-mile route showcases the natural beauty and historic charm of the Brandywine Valley. The drive passes through rolling hills, historic sites, and the picturesque Brandywine Creek State Park, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Olympic Peninsula Loop, Washington
This 330-mile loop circumnavigates Olympic National Park, offering diverse landscapes from rugged coastlines to temperate rainforests. Highlights include Lake Crescent, the Hoh Rainforest, and numerous beaches, providing a comprehensive tour of the Pacific Northwest’s natural wonders.
Patchwork Parkway, Utah
This 55-mile route connects Heritage Highway 89 and Scenic Byway 143, climbing from 6,000 feet to more than 10,000 feet in elevation. The drive offers spectacular views of colorful rock formations, alpine lakes, and lush forests, showcasing Utah’s diverse landscapes.
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Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway, South Carolina
This 120-mile drive follows an ancient Cherokee path along the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The route passes numerous waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and historic sites, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Hermann Wine Trail, Missouri
This 20-mile route along the Missouri River connects seven family-owned wineries, offering a taste of the state’s wine country. The drive passes through rolling hills and charming river towns, providing a scenic backdrop for wine tasting and exploration.
Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, California and Oregon
This 500-mile route connects Lassen Volcanic National Park in California to Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. The drive offers views of volcanic landscapes, crystal- clear lakes, and diverse ecosystems, providing a unique perspective on the region’s geological history.
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Scenic Byways – More than Pretty Views
These scenic byways offer more than just pretty views – they are gateways to America’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and histories. Whether it’s a coastal cruise, a mountain adventure, or a journey through rolling countryside, these roads promise unforgettable experiences.
So, grab a map, pack some snacks, and hit the road – because sometimes the journey is the destination.
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