Best Scenic Drives to Experience in the U.S.

The United States is home to some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in the world. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just someone looking for a relaxing drive, scenic roads in the U.S. offer breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. From rugged coastlines to vast deserts, here are some of the best scenic drives to experience in the U.S.

1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is often considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world. This iconic highway runs along the California coastline, offering dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean, cliffs, beaches, and coastal towns.

• Length: 655 miles (though you can enjoy shorter sections)

• Highlights: Big Sur, Hearst Castle, Bixby Creek Bridge, and the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the views are clear.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia & North Carolina)

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic route that runs through the Appalachian Highlands, offering some of the best mountain views in the Eastern U.S. Known for its vibrant fall foliage, this drive also offers beautiful wildflowers in the spring and lush greenery in the summer.

• Length: 469 miles

• Highlights: Peaks of Otter, Linville Falls, Grandfather Mountain, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

• Best Time to Visit: Fall, for the stunning autumn colors, or spring, for wildflower blooms.

3. Route 66 (Chicago to Santa Monica)

Known as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 is one of the most famous roads in the U.S., stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica. This historic route offers a nostalgic look at Americana, with quirky roadside attractions, old diners, and vintage motels.

• Length: 2,448 miles

• Highlights: Cadillac Ranch, the Painted Desert, the Grand Canyon, and the Santa Monica Pier.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall, when the weather is more comfortable for long drives.

4. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)

Located in Glacier National Park, Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-see drive for anyone visiting the Rocky Mountains. This winding mountain road takes you through the heart of the park, offering panoramic views of glaciers, lakes, and towering peaks.

• Length: 50 miles

• Highlights: Logan Pass, St. Mary Lake, and spectacular mountain vistas.

• Best Time to Visit: Summer, when the road is fully open (typically late June through mid-September).

5. Overseas Highway (Florida Keys)

The Overseas Highway is a unique and stunning route that takes you from the mainland of Florida to the tropical islands of the Florida Keys. This 113-mile stretch of road runs over 42 bridges, with incredible views of the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

• Length: 113 miles

• Highlights: Key Largo, Marathon, and Key West.

• Best Time to Visit: Winter and early spring, when the weather is warm and pleasant.

6. The Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)

Following the course of the Mississippi River, the Great River Road is a 3,000-mile journey through ten states, showcasing beautiful riverfront views, charming small towns, and rich cultural history. Whether you’re driving through rolling hills or vast flatlands, this route offers a variety of landscapes.

• Length: 3,000 miles

• Highlights: The St. Louis Gateway Arch, Vicksburg National Military Park, and the Natchez Trace Parkway.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall, for comfortable temperatures and scenic views.

7. Beartooth Highway (Wyoming & Montana)

Beartooth Highway is one of the highest paved roads in the U.S., offering a thrilling drive through rugged mountains, alpine lakes, and expansive meadows. The road is especially famous for its scenic beauty, with views of snow-capped peaks and wildlife.

• Length: 68 miles

• Highlights: Yellowstone National Park, Cooke City, and spectacular views of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.

• Best Time to Visit: Summer (typically June to September) when the road is open.

8. Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)

Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 is often called one of the most beautiful drives in America, offering stunning views of the state’s famous red rock formations, slot canyons, and national parks. This road takes you through some of the best landscapes in the American West.

• Length: 124 miles

• Highlights: Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef National Park, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the national parks are less crowded.

9. The Loneliest Road in America (Nevada)

U.S. Route 50, known as “The Loneliest Road in America,” stretches across Nevada, taking travelers through wide-open deserts and tiny, remote towns. While the name may suggest solitude, the road offers striking landscapes, including mountains, valleys, and the occasional ghost town.

• Length: 3,073 miles (the Nevada section is the most famous)

• Highlights: Ely, the Great Basin National Park, and the famous “Welcome to Nevada” sign.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall, when temperatures are more bearable for the long stretches of desert driving.

10. Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway (Oregon)

The Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway is a short but spectacular drive that runs along the Columbia River, offering views of waterfalls, lush forests, and snow-capped mountains. This route is particularly popular for hiking and waterfall viewing.

• Length: 75 miles

• Highlights: Multnomah Falls, Vista House, and Rowena Crest.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer, when the waterfalls are at their fullest and flowers are blooming.

11. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee & North Carolina)

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a wealth of natural beauty, including mist-covered mountains, dense forests, and diverse wildlife. The park has multiple scenic drives that provide stunning views and access to hiking trails.

• Length: Various scenic drives within the park (including Clingmans Dome Road and Newfound Gap Road)

• Highlights: Clingmans Dome, Alum Cave Bluffs, and Cades Cove.

• Best Time to Visit: Fall, for the famous fall foliage, or spring, for wildflowers.

12. Hana Highway (Hawaii)

The Hana Highway is one of the most famous drives on the island of Maui, offering lush tropical landscapes, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs. This narrow, winding road takes you through Hawaii’s most pristine natural beauty.

• Length: 64 miles

• Highlights: Twin Falls, Wailua Valley, and Hana Bay.

• Best Time to Visit: Anytime, though be prepared for rain, as the region is tropical.

Conclusion

Whether you’re in search of towering mountains, coastal views, or desert landscapes, the U.S. offers some of the best scenic drives in the world. Each of these routes provides a unique experience, showcasing the country’s diverse landscapes and natural beauty. Plan your road trip, pack your camera, and hit the road to explore the breathtaking views these scenic drives have to offer!