The United States, with its vast and varied landscape, offers some of the most breathtaking views in the world—many of which are accessible right from the highway. These vantage points offer spectacular photo opportunities and serve as gateways to understanding the geological and cultural histories.
In this article, we’ll explore 25 of the most awe-inspiring scenic overlooks along U.S. highways, each offering a unique perspective on America’s natural beauty.
Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park (California)
Perched high above Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point offers a bird’s-eye view of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the Sierra Nevada range. It’s like standing on the world’s edge, with the valley floor 3,200 feet below. The play of light on the granite cliffs at sunset is nothing short of magical.
Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park (Washington)
On a clear day, Hurricane Ridge feels like the top of the world. The sweeping vista encompasses the Olympic Mountains, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and even Canada’s Vancouver Island. In summer, wildflowers carpet the meadows; in winter, it’s a snowy wonderland.
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Artists Point, Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming)
This overlook provides the classic view of Yellowstone’s Lower Falls and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. The vista is so picturesque it seems almost painted—hence the name. The interplay of colors in the canyon walls is particularly stunning in the morning light.
Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)
While the entire 105-mile Skyline Drive is scenic, the Stony Man Mountain Overlook stands out. It offers panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. During fall, the vista explodes with autumnal colors.
Mather Point, Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
Mather Point, perhaps America’s most famous overlook, offers the quintessential view of the Grand Canyon. The vastness of the canyon, with its layered rock formations stretching to the horizon, never fails to inspire awe. It’s particularly breathtaking at sunrise or sunset.
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Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park (Maine)
The highest point on the North Atlantic seaboard, Cadillac Mountain offers sweeping views of the Maine coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. From October to March, it’s the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise. The sight of the first light touching the scattered islands is unforgettable.
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park (Montana)
The entire Going-to-the-Sun Road is a marvel, but the Oberlin Bend overlook is exceptional. It provides panoramic views of the U-shaped valley carved by glaciers, with towering peaks and cascading waterfalls. Keep an eye out for mountain goats on the nearby cliffs!
Seven Mile Bridge, Florida Keys (Florida)
While not a traditional overlook, driving on the Seven Mile Bridge offers unparalleled views of the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys. On a clear day, the vista stretches for miles, with small islands dotting the horizon. It’s like driving through a postcard.
Clingmans Dome, Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina)
At 6,643 feet, Clingman Dome is the highest point in the Smokies. The observation tower provides 360-degree views of the misty, rolling mountains that give the park its name. On clear days, visibility can extend over 100 miles.
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Mount Evans Scenic Byway (Colorado)
The highest paved road in North America leads to a spectacular overlook at 14,130 feet. The view from the top encompasses the entire Front Range of the Rockies and the Great Plains stretching to the east. It’s like standing on the roof of the continent.
Kancamagus Highway, White Mountain National Forest (New Hampshire)
The ‘Kanc,’ as locals call it, offers numerous pullouts with stunning views of the White Mountains. The CL Graham Overlook stands out, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. In autumn, the foliage display is simply spectacular.
Multnomah Falls, Columbia River Gorge (Oregon)
While the falls are the main attraction, the view from the Benson Bridge is breathtaking. Looking down, you see the lower falls plunging into the pool below; looking up, the upper falls seem to drop from the sky. It’s a perspective that makes you feel the raw power of nature.
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Newfound Gap, Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina)
Straddling the Tennessee-North Carolina state line, Newfound Gap offers expansive views of both sides of the park. It’s a great spot to appreciate the biodiversity of the Smokies, as you can see the change in vegetation from the lower to higher elevations.
Logan Pass, Glacier National Park (Montana)
The highest point on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Logan Pass offers stunning alpine views. The Hanging Gardens area is exceptional, with wildflower meadows set against rugged peaks. It’s not uncommon to spot bighorn sheep or mountain goats from here.
Chapman’s Peak Drive (South Africa)
While not in the U.S., this honorable mention is too spectacular to ignore. Hugging the cliffs between Noordhoek and Hout Bay, Chapman’s Peak Drive offers 114 curves of pure scenic beauty. The views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding mountains are simply unparalleled.
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Dead Horse Point State Park (Utah)
Overlooking a gooseneck in the Colorado River, Dead Horse Point offers views that rival the Grand Canyon. The layered red rocks contrast beautifully with the deep blue of the river 2,000 feet below. At sunset, the colors are particularly intense.
Horseshoe Bend (Arizona)
Just a short hike from U.S. Route 89, this overlook provides a stunning view of the Colorado River as it makes a 270-degree turn around a sandstone escarpment. The contrast between the blue-green water and the red rocks is striking, especially in the late afternoon light.
Pikes Peak Highway (Colorado)
The 19-mile road to the summit of Pikes Peak offers numerous scenic pullouts, but the view from the top is the real prize. On a clear day, you can see five states from the 14,115-foot summit. It’s said that the view inspired the lyrics to ‘America the Beautiful.’
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Bonneville Salt Flats (Utah)
While not a traditional overlook, the vast expanse of the Bonneville Salt Flats offers a unique perspective. The flat, white landscape stretches to the horizon, creating an otherworldly scene. During sunrise or sunset, the entire landscape is bathed in ethereal light.
Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina/Virginia)
The entire 469-mile parkway is scenic, but the Waterrock Knob overlook stands out. At 5,820 feet, it offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains. On clear days, you can see four states from here.
Haleakalā National Park (Hawaii)
The summit of Haleakalā volcano offers an otherworldly view above the clouds. At sunrise, the play of light and shadow across the crater is breathtaking. On clear nights, the stargazing from this vantage point is unparalleled.
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Beartooth Highway (Montana/Wyoming)
Charles Kuralt called this ‘the most beautiful drive in America,’ and the Rock Creek Vista Point proves why. At nearly 9,000 feet, it offers expansive views of the Beartooth Mountains and the switchbacks you’ve just ascended. The alpine wildflower displays in summer are stunning.
Trail Ridge Road, Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
The highest continuous paved road in the U.S. offers numerous pullouts with spectacular views. Forest Canyon Overlook stands out, offering views of the deep glacial valley below and the Continental Divide. Watch for elk and bighorn sheep!
Crater Lake National Park (Oregon)
Rim Village offers the classic view of Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the U.S. The intense blue of the water contrasts beautifully with the surrounding cliffs. On calm days, the reflections on the lake’s surface are mirror-perfect.
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Big Sur Coastline (California)
While the entire drive along Highway 1 is scenic, Bixby Creek Bridge offers a stunning vista. The graceful arch of the bridge frames the rugged coastline and the Pacific Ocean beyond. It’s a view that epitomizes the raw beauty of the California coast.
Roadside Vistas That Take Your Breath Away
From sea to shining sea, these scenic overlooks showcase the incredible diversity and beauty of the American landscape. Each offers more than just a pretty view; they provide windows into the geological processes, the ecosystems, and often, the cultural histories of the regions they oversee.
As you plan your next road trip, consider incorporating some of these magnificent vistas into your itinerary. Remember to travel responsibly, respecting these natural wonders and the surrounding communities.
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