1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
Experience the ultimate coastal road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, where breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean meet dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming seaside towns like Big Sur and Santa Barbara. As you cruise along this iconic route, you’ll witness the grandeur of the California coastline, with its crashing waves and scenic overlooks that stretch as far as the eye can see. Explore hidden coves, stop at picturesque viewpoints, and indulge in the laid-back beach vibes that define this quintessential American road trip.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina and Virginia)
Meandering through the stunning Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers panoramic vistas, vibrant fall foliage, and access to iconic landmarks such as Shenandoah National Park and the Great Smoky Mountains. This scenic byway is a nature lover’s paradise, with winding roads that lead you through dense forests, blooming wildflowers, and serene mountain landscapes. Take your time to explore hiking trails, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and witness the beauty of the changing seasons as you drive along this enchanting route.
3. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Traverse Glacier National Park on this legendary road that cuts through glacial valleys, alpine meadows, and jaw-dropping mountain peaks providing awe-inspiring views at every turn. Going-to-the-Sun Road is an engineering marvel that takes you through the heart of one of America’s most pristine wilderness areas. As you wind along this breathtaking route, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. Don’t forget to stop at Logan Pass, the highest point on the road, where you can stretch your legs and take in the majestic beauty surrounding you.
4. Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)
Brace yourself for an exhilarating journey along the Million Dollar Highway in Colorado, known for its hairpin turns, dramatic cliffs, and panoramic vistas of the rugged San Juan Mountains. This scenic byway offers a thrilling driving experience as you navigate through the heart of the Rockies. Marvel at the towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and alpine meadows that paint a picture-perfect backdrop along the way. With every twist and turn, you’ll be immersed in the natural beauty that makes Colorado a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
5. Overseas Highway (Florida)
Connecting the Florida Keys, the Overseas Highway stretches across azure waters, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico and access to breathtaking coral reefs and charming island communities. As you drive along this iconic road, you’ll feel like you’re floating above the water, with the sparkling blue sea on either side. Immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of the Keys, stop at roadside food shacks, and dip your toes in the warm, turquoise waters of the Florida Keys. This tropical paradise will leave you longing for endless summer days and unforgettable sunsets.
6. Skyline Drive (Virginia)
Follow the Skyline Drive as it winds through Shenandoah National Park, treating you to stunning vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, creating a true nature lover’s paradise. This scenic byway is a gateway to outdoor adventure, offering hiking, camping, and wildlife-watching opportunities. Keep your camera handy as you may spot white-tailed deer gracefully crossing your path, vibrant wildflowers carpeting the meadows, and the occasional glimpse of a black bear or red fox.
7. Beartooth Highway (Montana and Wyoming)
Prepare to be mesmerized as you drive through the Beartooth Highway, showcasing the untouched beauty of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, with towering peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and sweeping alpine meadows. This high-elevation byway takes you on a breathtaking journey through some of the most rugged and remote landscapes in the United States. As you ascend to over 10,000 feet, you’ll witness a dramatic change in scenery, from dense forests to open alpine vistas.
8. Historic Columbia River Highway (Oregon
Uncover the beauty of the Pacific Northwest on the Historic Columbia River Highway, where moss-covered waterfalls, towering basalt cliffs, and lush forests create a magical landscape that seems straight out of a fairytale. This historic route, often called the “King of Roads,” winds along the Columbia River Gorge, offering breathtaking viewpoints and access to iconic landmarks like Multnomah Falls.
9. Acadia All-American Road (Maine)
Explore the rugged coastline and enchanting landscapes of Acadia National Park along the Acadia All-American Road, offering scenic vistas, charming fishing villages, and the iconic Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. This coastal route takes you on a journey through one of America’s most stunning national parks, where granite cliffs meet crashing waves and serene forests give way to picturesque harbors.
10. Route 66 (Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California)
Step back in time on the iconic Route 66, known as the “Main Street of America,” where you’ll encounter vintage roadside attractions, historic towns, and a nostalgic slice of Americana. This legendary highway stretches across eight states, offering a journey through the heart of American history and culture. Cruise along the open road, passing through charming small towns, quirky roadside diners, and classic motels that harken back to a bygone era. From the towering skyscrapers of Chicago to the iconic Santa Monica Pier in California, Route 66 is a cultural time capsule that allows you to relive the golden age of American road trips.
11. Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee)
Trace the footsteps of early American history along the Natchez Trace Parkway. This scenic route showcases the beauty of the Deep South, with its rolling hills, dense forests, and historic sites, offering a serene and contemplative journey. Traveling this historic route, you’ll follow the path of Native American tribes, early explorers, and weary travelers seeking respite from the bustling cities. Immerse yourself in the stories of the past as you explore ancient Native American mounds, visit historic plantations, and wander through charming Southern towns.
12. Great River Road (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana)
Follow the mighty Mississippi River on the Great River Road, a route that spans ten states and offers stunning river views, charming river towns, and glimpses into the cultural heritage of the region. Traveling along this iconic byway, you’ll witness the timeless beauty of America’s most iconic river. Marvel at the vast expanse of the river as it weaves through lush landscapes and fertile farmlands. Explore historic towns and cities that have thrived along its banks, each with its own unique character and stories to tell.
13. Trail Ridge Road (Colorado)
Embark on a high-altitude adventure along Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. As the highest continuous paved road in the United States, it takes you through the alpine tundra and past glacial lakes and provides awe-inspiring views of the majestic Rockies. As you ascend to elevations over 12,000 feet, the air becomes crisp, and the scenery becomes more dramatic. Look out for herds of elk grazing in the meadows, listen to the soothing sound of rushing mountain streams, and feel the immensity of the mountains surrounding you.
14. Utah Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)
Discover Utah’s diverse landscapes on Scenic Byway 12. From the otherworldly formations of Bryce Canyon National Park to the towering cliffs of Capitol Reef National Park, this route offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and geological marvels. As you drive along this road, you’ll witness the red rock canyons, expansive plateaus, and pristine forests that define Utah’s unparalleled beauty.
15. San Juan Skyway (Colorado)
Explore the rugged beauty of the San Juan Mountains on the San Juan Skyway. This breathtaking loop takes you through historic mining towns, jaw-dropping mountain passes, and views of towering peaks and vibrant alpine meadows. San Juan Skyway is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, providing access to world-class hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities. As you drive along the skyway, you’ll encounter historic towns like Durango and Ouray, where you can immerse yourself in the region’s rich mining heritage.
16. Hana Highway (Hawaii)
The lush tropical beauty of Maui will captivate you as you wind along the Hana Highway. This scenic byway showcases cascading waterfalls, bamboo forests, pristine beaches, and panoramic coastal vistas, making it a must-do adventure in Hawaii. As you navigate the winding road, take your time to stop at the many breathtaking viewpoints and natural attractions along the way. Swim in hidden freshwater pools beneath majestic waterfalls, hike through dense rainforests alive with the sounds of exotic birds, and enjoy the serenity of secluded beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters. The Hana Highway is a true escape into paradise, where you can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with the raw beauty of nature.
17. Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire)
Experience the stunning fall foliage of New England on the Kancamagus Highway. Driving through the White Mountain National Forest, you’ll be treated to a symphony of vibrant colors, scenic overlooks, and tranquil river valleys. During autumn, the dense forests transform into a breathtaking canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a visual spectacle that attracts visitors from near and far. Take your time to explore the numerous hiking trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints, where you can capture the beauty of the foliage from above.
18. Big Sur Coast Highway (California)
Prepare to be enchanted by the dramatic cliffs and breathtaking coastal scenery of California’s Big Sur Coast Highway. This iconic route offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, hidden coves, and iconic landmarks like the Bixby Creek Bridge. As you wind along the curving road, each turn reveals a new postcard-worthy vista, with rugged cliffs meeting the crashing waves below. Stop at the numerous viewpoints to soak in the grandeur of the coastline and listen to the haunting call of seagulls. Explore Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, where towering redwoods create a tranquil forest sanctuary, or visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to witness the ethereal beauty of McWay Falls, a waterfall that cascades directly onto the sandy beach.
19. The Loneliest Road in America (Nevada)
Embark on a journey through the vastness of Nevada on the Loneliest Road in America. As you traverse the Great Basin Desert, you’ll witness vast open landscapes, quirky roadside attractions, and the sense of solitude that gives this road its name. This remote stretch of highway offers a unique and introspective experience where you can truly disconnect from the outside world and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the desert. Along the Loneliest Road, you’ll encounter small towns that have retained their old-fashioned charm, offering a glimpse into the history and rugged spirit of the American West.
20. Apache Trail (Arizona)
Experience the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert on the Apache Trail in Arizona. This historic route winds through the Superstition Mountains, offering stunning desert vistas, picturesque lakes, and a glimpse into the state’s rich Native American heritage. As you drive along the Apache Trail, the towering saguaro cacti and rugged rock formations create a captivating desert landscape that is both awe-inspiring and tranquil. The trail takes you past the iconic Superstition Mountain, shrouded in legends and folklore, adding a sense of mystery to your journey.
21. Outer Banks Scenic Byway (North Carolina)
Discover the charm of North Carolina’s Outer Banks on this scenic byway. With its iconic lighthouses, wild horses, and pristine beaches, this route takes you through a coastal paradise rich in natural beauty and maritime history. Begin your journey in Corolla, where you can encounter the famous Corolla wild horses that roam freely along the shores. As you travel south, you’ll pass through the charming towns of Duck, Kitty Hawk, and Nags Head, each offering its unique coastal charm. Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, where you can learn about the birthplace of aviation and marvel at the historic landmarks.
22. Cades Cove Loop Road (Tennessee)
Step back in time as you drive through the picturesque Cades Cove Loop Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This scenic route offers panoramic mountain views, historic homesteads, and abundant wildlife sightings. As you explore the lush valleys and rolling meadows, keep your eyes peeled for deer, black bears, and various bird species that call this area home. Take a moment to explore the preserved pioneer cabins and churches, offering a glimpse into the lives of the early settlers in the region.
23. Black Hills Scenic Byway (South Dakota)
Immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the Black Hills on this scenic byway. From the iconic Mount Rushmore to the majestic Custer State Park, this route showcases granite peaks, serene forests, and Native American heritage. Begin your journey in Rapid City and make your way to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where the faces of four American presidents are carved into the mountainside. Continue on to Custer State Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Drive through the park’s wildlife loop and witness herds of bison roaming freely across the grasslands and pronghorn antelope, elk, and bighorn sheep.
24. Mount Washington Auto Road (New Hampshire)
Embark on a thrilling ascent up Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, via the Mount Washington Auto Road. Experience the dramatic changes in scenery as you drive through dense forests and alpine meadows, and eventually reach the windswept summit with breathtaking panoramic views. Begin your journey at the base of the mountain, surrounded by dense forests and vibrant foliage. As you ascend, the tree line gradually gives way to alpine meadows and exposed rocky slopes. Experience the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding Presidential Range and the sprawling valleys below as you make your way up the mountain.
25. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Byway (Ohio)
Discover the unexpected beauty of Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley on this scenic byway. The route winds through Cuyahoga Valley National Park, where lush forests, serene waterfalls, and the meandering Cuyahoga River create a tranquil escape amidst an urban landscape. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Byway offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences that showcase the unique charm of Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in nature or a glimpse into the region’s history, this scenic byway has something to offer everyone.
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Jaimee Marshall is a writer who hails from the suburbs of Philadelphia but has spent the past few years living abroad in Australia. She considers herself a bit of a movie buff with a knack for horror and clever sci-fi flicks. When she isn't watching or writing about movies, she's probably either posting political memes, cooking vegan food, or being active. She covers entertainment news, and reviews films and television for Wealth of Geeks. You can also catch her deep dives on sociopolitical issues at Evie Magazine, Katie Couric Media, and Her Campus or watch her appearance on Popcorned Planet, where she discusses heated issues like due process in our current social climate.