When it comes to scenic drives, United States roadways don’t disappoint. From majestic mountains to bewitching deserts and chill coastal towns, not to mention rich history, there’s a lot to see and experience along America’s highways and byways.
But, tackling it all in one drive would be a bit ambitious. That’s why we’ve created a list of the 24 most scenic drives in America, allowing you to pace your exploration. These routes are perfect for road trip enthusiasts with a deep desire to get to know America’s vast and varied terrain. From sky-high mountainous routes to winding valley roads, this blog will cover the most beautiful drives in the US.
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Why Scenic Drives Are the Best Way to Explore America
Scenic drives are the ultimate way to get to know America’s landscapes. Road trips can take you off the beaten path, giving you access to hidden gems and remote attractions. In the US, most scenic drives (such as Skyline Drive in Virginia, arguably the most scenic drive in the United States) are packed with breathtaking stops that you have to see up close to believe. Plus, driving allows you to explore each destination at your own pace and make spontaneous pit stops. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing excursion or a thrilling adventure, traveling by car lets you curate the experience.
Our Top 24 Best Scenic Drives in the USA
Ready to discover the most beautiful drives in America? Below are our top 24 picturesque road trips that demonstrate just how diverse and spectacular this country is. From national park tours to beachy vibes, there’s something for everyone on our list.
We’ll cover routes that launch from different regions of the country and include a mix of easy and challenging drives. Feel free to pick your favorites based on your location, the time of year you’re traveling and interests.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
Explore the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) for an unforgettable coastal road trip in California. Enjoy epic views of the route’s namesake ocean and the rugged California coastline. You’ll cruise through some of California’s most iconic towns and cities, like Malibu, where surfers ride waves in front of celebrity-owned homes, and Sonoma wine country.
Stop at Hearst Castle in San Luis Obispo County for awe-inspiring architecture. Trek through the redwood forests of Big Sur and snap a photo at the famous Bixby Creek Bridge. With sandy beaches and quaint coastal towns, the PCH is one of the most scenic highways in America.
2. Trail Ridge Road (Colorado)
Cross the Continental Divide on Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in America. Set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, this sky-high road will take you through alpine tundra and offer opportunities for spotting wildlife like bighorn sheep, elk and mule deer. Plus, it runs through Rocky Mountain National Park, where countless scenic hikes and rustic campgrounds await you.
Trail Ridge Road typically opens around Memorial Day weekend and closes for the winter season in mid- to late-October. Read our Trail Ridge Road blog for a closer look at the route’s standout sites.
3. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Take a wild ride on Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, one of the best scenic routes in USA’s northern states. This route serves up nonstop jaw-dropping views, from towering peaks to pristine alpine lakes. With hairpin turns and winding roads, it’s not for the faint of heart. But if you’re looking for a thrilling drive, you won’t be disappointed. Be sure to hit key attractions like Logan Pass, Hidden Lake Overlook and St. Mary Lake.
4. Route 66 (Multiple States)
In the US, most scenic drives can be completed in a day, but allow several days for your unforgettable retro road trip on Route 66. Known as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 travels through eight states and time. Quirky roadside attractions and cultural landmarks, like the Cadillac Ranch and the Blue Whale, provide a peek into the past.
This route is packed with photogenic stops, from roadside diners to neon-lit motels. Plus, it winds through diverse landscapes, from the heart of downtown Chicago to the deserts of Arizona, ending at the pier in Santa Monica, California.
5. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (Utah)
Seeking solitude with a side of incredible red rock views? Grand Staircase-Escalante is one of the best scenic routes in the USA for some serenity (and maybe artistic inspiration). This mesmerizing route will take you past otherworldly landscapes, like twisted rock formations and narrow canyons. Pay a visit to Devils Garden inside Arches National Park or venture into the Petrified Forest and view fossilized trees. It’s a must-see landmark on any Utah National Parks road trip.
6. Overseas Highway (Florida Keys)
Treat yourself to tropical sights on the Overseas Highway. This 113-mile road connects the islands of the Florida Keys with 42 bridges, including the world-renowned Seven Mile Bridge. Make a stop along the way to scuba dive the stunning coral reefs, indulge in key lime pie from Blue Heaven or sunbathe on the soft shores of Sombrero Beach.
7. Denali Park Road (Alaska)
Experience the wild and unfiltered vibes of Alaska on Denali Park Road. This route takes you through Denali National Park, offering views of North America’s tallest peak, Denali. Be prepared for wildlife sightings of majestic creatures like bears and moose.
Keep in mind that private vehicles have limited access to Denali’s only road. Sites like
Stony Hill Overlook and the Eielson Visitor Center are accessible only via seasonal tour buses.
8. Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)
Discover the ultimate mountain road trip on the Million Dollar Highway. This drive through the San Juan Mountains offers nonstop dramatic vistas and a touch of historic charm through its abandoned mining towns. Stop by Silverton and enjoy its vintage-feeling downtown area, or visit the now-closed Mayflower Gold Mill. Satisfy your craving for thrills along the switchbacks of Red Mountain Pass and witness the majesty of Bear Creek Falls.
9. Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)
Take in red rock magic on the Scenic Byway 12. This road connects the enchanting hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park to the vibrant cliffs of Capitol Reef National Park. Cliffside views and desert panoramas will delight nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. Hike to Calf Creek Falls for a challenging, but rewarding trek, and visit Anasazi State Park Museum to discover the ruins of an ancient Native American culture.
10. Mount Washington Auto Road (New Hampshire)
Tackle Mount Washington Auto Road, a steep, 7.6-mile climb that takes you to the highest point in New England. Pull-offs along the way, like Cragway Turnout, offer striking photo opportunities. Once at the top, you’ll take in panoramic views of the White Mountains. Be prepared for unpredictable weather — the climate shifts rapidly when you’re up in the clouds. But it’s worth it to experience New Hampshire, one of the prettiest states to drive through.
11. Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive (California and Nevada)
Admire the deep blue waters of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains on this scenic drive. Passing through California and Nevada, this route encircles the lake, offering opportunities for hiking and boating in the summer and snow sports in the winter. On the Nevada side, you can try your luck at the casinos on the South Shore. Dozens of restaurants and bars dot the sand, offering waterfront food and fun.
12. Acadia National Park Loop Road (Maine)
Captivating forests meet coastal vibes along the 27-mile Park Loop Road through Acadia National Park. Catch the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain or enjoy a picnic by Jordan Pond. Whether you’re looking to turn up the adrenaline with hiking or unwind in nature, you’ll find it all on this scenic road.
13. Big Cypress National Preserve Loop (Florida)
Wander through the wetlands of Florida on this lush road. Winding through sawgrass marshes and coastal mangroves, this road trip is the perfect way to witness some of Florida’s most diverse flora and fauna. Don’t be surprised if you spot some alligators along the way, and keep a lookout for migratory birds overhead. If it’s a peaceful nature escape you’re after, you’ll find it on the Big Cypress National Preserve Loop
14. The Beartooth Highway (Montana and Wyoming)
Reach new heights (literally) on the Beartooth Highway. This rugged road climbs to an elevation of nearly 11,000 feet above sea level, supplying views of snow-capped mountain peaks and glacier lakes along the way. Plus, it leads directly to Yellowstone Park’s northeast entrance, so you can continue on with a Yellowstone road trip.
15. The Great River Road (Multiple States)
Follow the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana on the Great River Road, one of the best scenic drives in USA's heartland. Each stretch delivers its own unique charm, like the welcoming town of Trempealeau with its quaint main street, and the vibrant city of Dubuque, Iowa, with the historic cable car-based Fourth Street Elevator.
There are plenty of chances to pull over for a riverfront meal or stroll. Discover the top stops on our Great River Road Trip planner.
16. Pacific Coast Highway (Oregon)
Discover the dramatic views from the Pacific Coast Highway in Oregon, where jagged cliffs and rocky beaches create a moody and magical scene. With forests to one side and the ocean to the other, you’ll never be far from an outdoor excursion.
Marvel at Haystack Rock, an iconic sea stack on Cannon Beach, or go sandboarding at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area inside the Siuslaw National Forest. An Oregon coast road trip is not your ordinary beach getaway, and that’s what makes it so special.
17. Avenue of the Giants (California)
This 31-mile scenic road through the Humboldt Redwoods State Park takes visitors through towering old-growth redwood forest, showcasing some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world. Cruise through the Shine Drive Thru Tree for a unique photo opportunity. Trek through Rockefeller Forest, the largest surviving old-growth coastal redwood forest in the world. Pop into the Humboldt Redwoods Visitor Center for engaging and educational exhibits. It’s a must-see stop for those traveling from Redwood National Park to San Francisco.
18. Big Bend National Park Scenic Drive (Texas)
Tranquil desert vistas meet mountainous landscapes on this Texas road trip. Containing the Chisos Mountains, Rio Grande River and Chihuahuan Desert, Big Bend National Park is a dreamscape for nature photographers. Stop for a soak amongst the remnants of a thermal bath house at the Hot Springs Historic District. Take in the river and canyon views at Santa Elena Canyon, and venture just outside the park to see the ghost town of Terlingua. Given the park’s 800,000-plus acre size, we recommend picking up our latest Road Atlas & National Park Guide to find your way around.
19. Route 1 (Maine to Florida)
Make your way from Maine’s rugged coastline to Florida’s sandy shores on Route 1. Explore old lighthouses in Maine before moving on to Cape Cod for lobster rolls and sand dune fun. Check out the funky shops on the Outer Banks or just chill out on the calm beaches. End your trip amongst the bright lights and city life of Miami, where you can stroll along the famous Miami Beach Boardwalk during the day and dance the night away at one of the world-class clubs.
20. San Juan Skyway (Colorado)
The San Juan Skyway. is one of the most diverse scenic drives the United States has to offer. This 236-mile road takes you through Colorado’s dynamic southwest, including quaint towns, unbeatable mountain views and thrilling outdoor adventures. Stroll through the town of Telluride, with its colorful Victorian-era homes and world-famous skiing, and visit Ouray, the “Switzerland of America,” for European allure.
21. Cascade Loop Scenic Byway (Washington)
Marvel at Washington’s unreal scenery on the Cascade Loop. This 440-mile byway is filled with postcard-worthy landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Cascades to the moody coastlines of Puget Sound. Picturesque towns line this route, like Leavenworth, with its Bavarian-themed village, and Winthrop, with its Old West charm. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the shores of Lake Chelan, enjoy a picnic or nature walk in Methow Valley or hike the wild alpine forests of North Cascades National Park.
22. North Shore Scenic Drive (Minnesota)
Admire the most stunning stretch of Minnesota’s Highway 61. Hugging the shores of Lake Superior, all the way from the Canadian border to Duluth, this breathtaking journey includes magnificent cliffs, crashing waves and epic waterfalls. Passing by 8 state parks, including Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse, it’s the perfect trip for wilderness enthusiasts.
Fans of fall foliage will not be disappointed by the vibrant colors that surround this road in autumn. Check out our North Shore Scenic Drive blog for the must-see spots on this route.
23. Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (Oregon)
Get ready to chase literal waterfalls on the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway. This historic route is packed with striking water features, like Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon, and Hood River, the “windsurfing capital of the world.” It’s also known for its award-winning wineries, complete with incredible views of the gorge’s diverse landscapes. History lovers can appreciate the many cultural heritage sites along the route, like Vista House and the Cascade Locks Historical Museum.
24. Skyline Drive (Virginia)
Go for a ride down Skyline Drive. This 105-mile route along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains is a spectacular showcase for Shenandoah National Park’s beauty. Its 75 scenic overlooks serve panoramic views of mountains, valleys and forests. You’ll probably spot some wildlife, too, like deer and black bears. Savor the journey by stopping for short hikes and picnics along the way. Nature fans and photographers can appreciate the vibrant spring wildflowers and the fiery fall foliage.
Tips for Driving the Most Scenic Roads in America
A little planning can make a big difference in having a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you road trip like a pro:
- Pack for variable weather. High-elevation routes, in particular, can see a range of weather conditions throughout the day, so it’s a good idea to pack layers.
- Be prepared with offline and paper maps. Scenic routes can have poor cell service, so pack paper road maps or download offline maps before hitting the road.
- Plan fuel stops. Select routes might not have gas stations for miles. Plan accordingly so you don’t find yourself with an empty tank.
- Load up on snacks. You’ll need sustenance if you have lots of outdoor exploration planned. Plus, food at rest stops can be pricey.
Research park entrance fees. Some parks require reservations, only accept cash or limit the number of daily guests. Look into these rules before heading to these attractions.
Explore the Most Scenic Drives in the US with Rand McNally Maps
Whether you’re a nature lover, craving a chill getaway or want to dive into our country’s history, the 24 most scenic drives in America will scratch every type of travel itch.
America’s awe-inspiring landscapes are calling and planning your road trips is easier with our comprehensive maps and atlases. With useful info like trailhead locations, landmarks, insider insights, and detailed topography, our navigational resources give you the confidence to explore the best scenic drives in the US.