Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our guide to the most scenic routes for road tripping across the U.S. From coast to coast, America’s highways and byways offer breathtaking views, charming small towns, and endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you’re seeking majestic mountains, serene coastlines, or vast deserts, these picturesque roads promise to make your journey as memorable as the destinations themselves. Buckle up, hit the open road, and discover the beauty of the United States like never before.
Pacific Coast Highway (California)
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, offers one of the most picturesque drives in the United States. Stretching from Dana Point in Southern California to Leggett in the north, this route provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and serene beaches. Notable stops include the stunning Bixby Creek Bridge, the artistic enclave of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the iconic Hearst Castle. The drive through Big Sur, with its winding roads and dramatic coastal scenery, is a highlight that makes this trip unforgettable.
Route 66 (Illinois to California)
Known as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 is an iconic road trip route that spans over 2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. This historic highway takes travelers through a diverse array of landscapes, including the Great Plains, deserts, and mountain ranges. Along the way, you’ll encounter classic Americana, including vintage motels, quirky roadside attractions, and historic diners. Notable stops include the Petrified Forest National Park, Cadillac Ranch, and the Wigwam Motel.
Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)
The Blue Ridge Parkway meanders for 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. This scenic drive offers unparalleled views of the rolling mountains, lush forests, and vibrant fall foliage. Highlights include the Linn Cove Viaduct, Mabry Mill, and numerous hiking trails that lead to stunning vistas. The Parkway’s carefully preserved natural beauty and charming small towns make it a favorite among nature lovers.
Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)
Following the course of the mighty Mississippi River, the Great River Road spans ten states from Minnesota to Louisiana. This scenic byway offers a diverse range of landscapes, from the river’s headwaters in Minnesota to the bustling port cities along the Gulf of Mexico. Travelers can explore historic river towns, wildlife refuges, and cultural landmarks. Key attractions include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Natchez Trace Parkway, and the vibrant city of New Orleans.
Overseas Highway (Florida)
The Overseas Highway, part of U.S. Route 1, stretches 113 miles from Miami to Key West, Florida. This unique drive takes travelers across a series of bridges and causeways that connect the Florida Keys, offering stunning views of turquoise waters and tropical scenery. Highlights include the Seven Mile Bridge, the charming town of Key Largo, and the vibrant nightlife of Key West. The Overseas Highway provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise.
Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Going-to-the-Sun Road is a 50-mile scenic drive through Glacier National Park in Montana. This engineering marvel winds through rugged mountains, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes, offering spectacular views at every turn. Key highlights include the Logan Pass, where visitors can spot mountain goats and bighorn sheep, and the stunning vistas of Lake McDonald. The road is only open during the summer months due to snow, making it a seasonal but unforgettable journey.
Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)
Scenic Byway 12 in Utah is a 124-mile route that traverses some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the American Southwest. Connecting Capitol Reef National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, this drive takes you through red rock canyons, high desert plateaus, and lush forests. Notable stops include the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Calf Creek Falls, and the charming town of Escalante. The diverse scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities make this byway a must-visit.
The Loneliest Road (Nevada)
U.S. Route 50, known as “The Loneliest Road in America,” stretches across Nevada from the Utah border to the California border. This desolate yet beautiful route offers a glimpse into the vast, open landscapes of the Great Basin. Key stops include the historic mining town of Ely, the stunning Sand Mountain, and the unique hot springs of Spencer Hot Springs. The sense of isolation and the stark beauty of the desert make this road trip a unique adventure.
Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire)
The Kancamagus Highway, or “The Kanc,” is a 34.5-mile scenic byway that cuts through the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Known for its stunning fall foliage, this route offers breathtaking views of mountain peaks, rushing rivers, and dense forests. Highlights include the Albany Covered Bridge, the panoramic views from the top of Kancamagus Pass, and numerous hiking trails and waterfalls. The Kancamagus Highway is a favorite for leaf-peepers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)
The Million Dollar Highway is a 25-mile stretch of U.S. Route 550 between Silverton and Ouray, Colorado. This dramatic drive takes you through the rugged San Juan Mountains, with steep cliffs, hairpin turns, and breathtaking views. Highlights include the historic mining town of Silverton, the stunning Red Mountain Pass, and the charming town of Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America.” The Million Dollar Highway offers a thrilling and scenic mountain adventure.
Cherohala Skyway (Tennessee to North Carolina)
The Cherohala Skyway is a 43-mile scenic drive that connects Tellico Plains, Tennessee, to Robbinsville, North Carolina. This route traverses the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests, offering stunning views of mountain peaks, deep gorges, and dense forests. Notable stops include the Bald River Falls, the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, and numerous overlooks that provide panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains. The Cherohala Skyway is a serene and picturesque journey through some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes.
Hana Highway (Hawaii)
The Hana Highway, also known as the Road to Hana, is a 64.4-mile drive along the northeastern coast of Maui, Hawaii. This winding road takes you through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and along dramatic coastal cliffs. Key attractions include the Twin Falls, the Garden of Eden Arboretum, and the picturesque town of Hana. The Hana Highway offers a tropical paradise with breathtaking scenery and numerous opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Beartooth Highway (Montana to Wyoming)
The Beartooth Highway, part of U.S. Route 212, is a 68-mile scenic drive that stretches from Red Lodge, Montana, to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. This route takes you through the Beartooth Mountains, offering some of the most stunning high-altitude scenery in the country. Highlights include the Beartooth Pass, which reaches an elevation of 10,947 feet, and the breathtaking views of alpine lakes, snow-capped peaks, and vast wilderness. The Beartooth Highway is a thrilling and scenic journey to the gateway of Yellowstone.
Skyline Drive (Virginia)
Skyline Drive runs 105 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. This scenic drive offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys, rolling hills, and dense forests. Key stops include the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, the panoramic views from the top of Hawksbill Mountain, and numerous hiking trails that lead to stunning vistas and waterfalls. Skyline Drive is a serene and picturesque route that showcases the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Cabot Trail (Nova Scotia)
The Cabot Trail is a 185-mile scenic loop around the northern tip of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. This route offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, picturesque fishing villages, and dense forests. Highlights include the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, the charming town of Baddeck, and numerous hiking trails and lookouts that provide panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The Cabot Trail is a stunning and diverse journey through some of Canada’s most beautiful landscapes.
Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi to Tennessee)
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic drive that follows the historic Natchez Trace trail from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee. This route takes you through lush forests, rolling hills, and numerous historic sites. Key attractions include the Emerald Mound, the Sunken Trace, and the beautiful vistas from the top of Little Mountain. The Natchez Trace Parkway offers a serene and picturesque journey through the heart of the American South.
Highway 101 (Oregon to California)
Highway 101, also known as the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, stretches along the Oregon and northern California coasts. This route offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush forests. Highlights include the iconic Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach, the picturesque town of Florence, and the stunning redwood forests of Northern California. Highway 101 provides a diverse and scenic journey along the Pacific Coast.
Trail Ridge Road (Colorado)
Trail Ridge Road, part of U.S. Route 34, is a 48-mile scenic drive through Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. This route takes you through high-altitude landscapes, reaching an elevation of 12,183 feet at its highest point. Highlights include the stunning vistas from the Alpine Visitor Center, the picturesque views of Longs Peak, and the abundant wildlife that can be spotted along the way. Trail Ridge Road offers a breathtaking and scenic journey through the heart of the Rockies.
Tail of the Dragon (Tennessee to North Carolina)
The Tail of the Dragon, part of U.S. Route 129, is an 11-mile stretch of road that winds through the Great Smoky Mountains between Tennessee and North Carolina. Known for its 318 curves, this route offers a thrilling and scenic drive through dense forests and rugged mountain terrain. Key attractions include the Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort, numerous overlooks, and the beautiful Fontana Lake. The Tail of the Dragon is a favorite among motorcyclists and driving enthusiasts.
Park Loop Road (Maine)
Park Loop Road is a 27-mile scenic drive through Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island, Maine. This route takes you through lush forests, past serene lakes, and along dramatic coastal cliffs. Highlights include the stunning views from the top of Cadillac Mountain, the picturesque Jordan Pond, and the rugged beauty of the Thunder Hole. Park Loop Road offers a serene and scenic journey through one of New England’s most beautiful national parks.
North Shore Scenic Drive (Minnesota)
The North Shore Scenic Drive, part of Minnesota State Highway 61, stretches 154 miles along the shores of Lake Superior from Duluth to Grand Portage. This route offers stunning views of the lake, dense forests, and numerous waterfalls. Key stops include the picturesque Split Rock Lighthouse, the beautiful Gooseberry Falls, and the charming town of Grand Marais. The North Shore Scenic Drive provides a serene and picturesque journey along the largest freshwater lake in the world.
Mount Washington Auto Road (New Hampshire)
The Mount Washington Auto Road is a 7.6-mile scenic drive that takes you to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. This winding road offers breathtaking views of the surrounding White Mountains and beyond. Highlights include the panoramic vistas from the summit, the historic Tip-Top House, and the scenic beauty of the Presidential Range. The Mount Washington Auto Road provides a thrilling and scenic journey to the top of New England.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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