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The Most Scenic Road Trip Routes
Embarking on a road trip is one of the most liberating travel experiences, offering the chance to explore breathtaking landscapes and undiscovered gems at your own pace. Across the United States, there are numerous scenic routes brimming with natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and historical significance. In this article, we journey through some of the most picturesque routes worth adding to your travel bucket list. From Hawaii’s lush Hana Highway to the rugged, untouched beauty of Alaska’s Anchorage to Valdez, each of these roads offers something unique and unforgettable. So, fuel up, grab your maps, and get ready for a visual feast and an adventurous spirit.
1. Hana Highway, Maui
The Hana Highway, stretching 64.4 miles along Maui’s northeastern coast, is a standout amongst the world’s most scenic drives. As you navigate its 620 curves and 59 bridges, the lush rainforest and cascading waterfalls create a mesmerizing backdrop, offering unparalleled views and photo opportunities.
Along the way, you can stop at quaint towns, visit the historic Ka’eleku Caverns, or enjoy the vibrant hues of the Hana Lava Tube. Don’t forget to dip into the refreshing waters of the Wai’anapanapa State Park, enhanced by its black sand beaches.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, the Carolinas and Virginia
Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, offering travelers a splendid tapestry of natural and cultural treasures. The route is celebrated for its sweeping mountain vistas, lush forests, and diverse wildlife.
Alongside extraordinary viewpoints like the Linn Cove Viaduct, the Blue Ridge Parkway invites travelers to explore cultural heritage at sites like the Blue Ridge Music Center and the Folk Art Center. Whether in spring’s bloom or fall’s foliage, it promises an immersive experience year-round.
3. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Running parallel with Lake Michigan, Lake Shore Drive provides a stunning mix of urban and natural scenery. Despite being a short journey of 15 miles, the drive offers panoramic views of Chicago’s skyline juxtaposed with the tranquil waters of the lake.
Key landmarks like the Museum Campus and Grant Park enhance the experience, while seasonal events and recreational spots add vibrancy to the journey. It’s a snapshot of Chicago’s architectural and cultural grandeur embodied within a single drive.
4. 17-Mile Drive, California
The 17-Mile Drive along California’s Pacific coastline is an icon of natural beauty. Though a toll road, its scenic rewards are worth the cost. Expect breathtaking ocean views, towering cypress trees, and the famed Pebble Beach Golf Links as part of this experience.
A trip along the 17-Mile Drive wouldn’t be complete without witnessing the Lone Cypress, one of the most photographed trees in North America. This drive serves as a testament to California’s rugged coastline and scenic wonders.
5. U.S. 1, Florida Keys
Embarking on a journey across U.S. 1 from Key Largo to Key West showcases the uniqueness of Florida’s island chain. Extending 113 miles with an intricate system of bridges and causeways, this route is dubbed the “Overseas Highway.”
It offers vistas brimming with azure waters and coral reefs. You can explore the rich marine life, stop at quirky attractions like the Ernest Hemingway Home, or relax at plentiful beaches, all while being enveloped by the warm tropical air.
6. Route 12, Utah
Utah’s Route 12, also known as Scenic Byway 12, is an explorer’s dream, spanning about 122 miles of rugged terrain between Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon National Parks. Dramatic cliffs, red rock formations, and vast desert landscapes offer a strikingly unique view at every mile.
Hiking opportunities abound along this route, with the rewarding trails of Calf Creek Falls and Escalante Petrified Forest inviting adventurers to delve deeper into Utah’s natural wonders. Route 12 is truly a treasure trove for those seeking the raw beauty of the American Southwest.
7. Bluebonnet Trail, Texas
Bluebonnet Trail in Texas is a seasonal symphony of color, best visited in early spring when the state flower, the bluebonnet, blankets the landscape. The trail, centered around the Hill Country, offers front-row views of this floral spectacle.
Visitors can follow various routes through charming towns like Burnet and Llano, immersing themselves in local culture and events celebrating the blooms. It’s not just a drive but an opportunity to witness Texas’s natural splendor in full bloom.
8. North Shore Drive, Minnesota
North Shore Drive, stretching 154 miles along Lake Superior, showcases Minnesota’s rugged beauty. As you travel from Duluth to Grand Portage, the pristine blues of the lake contrast beautifully with rocky cliffs and dense forests.
Stops along the way include Split Rock Lighthouse and Gooseberry Falls State Park, offering hiking, picnicking, and historical exploration. Whether you seek tranquility or adventure, North Shore Drive delivers with every twist and turn.
9. Trail Ridge Road, Colorado
Trail Ridge Road, traversing Rocky Mountain National Park, is the highest continuous paved road in the United States, reaching elevations over 12,000 feet. Its 48 miles are filled with breathtaking alpine vistas, diverse ecosystems, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Driving this route offers a rare chance to experience the park’s varied environments, from montane forests to alpine tundra. Seasonal accessibility means summer is the ideal time for this road trip, ensuring safe passage across its high altitudes.
10. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
The Kancamagus Highway runs 34.5 miles through the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. Celebrated for its scenic beauty, particularly during autumn, it offers unparalleled leaf-peeping opportunities with ablaze foliage.
Along this road, numerous observation points, hiking trails, and picnic areas provide ample opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. The historical sites along the route, such as the Albany Covered Bridge, add cultural depth to the journey.
11. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
Adventurers seeking alpine splendor will find Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park a must-see. Its 50 miles present stunning mountain scenery and access to iconic views like Logan Pass.
The drive is a showcase of pristine glaciers, meadows of wildflowers, and abundant wildlife. Not only a marvel of engineering, the road is a gateway to the park’s incredible natural landscape, accessible best during the fleeting summer months.
12. Highway 101, Oregon
Stretching along Oregon’s coastline, Highway 101 offers majestic views of the Pacific, quaint coastal towns, and sprawling beaches. Dotted with lighthouses and state parks, it’s a perfect route for those eager to explore the Pacific Northwest’s rugged charm.
As you traverse this highway, you’ll encounter diverse ecosystems, from temperate rainforests to towering sand dunes at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. It’s an unforgettable drive with natural beauty at every turn.
13. Olympic Peninsula Loop, Washington
The Olympic Peninsula Loop is a 330-mile circuit that encompasses diverse vistas, from rainforests to rugged Pacific coastlines. This route allows travelers to fully appreciate the ecological diversity of Olympic National Park.
Key highlights include the Hoh Rainforest with its moss-draped trees and the coastal views of Ruby Beach. The loop offers both the serenity of natural landscapes and the vibrancy of small communities like Port Angeles.
14. Route 6, Massachusetts
Route 6, slicing through Cape Cod, offers a mix of charming seaside villages and Atlantic Ocean views. This 117-mile stretch is steeped in history and culture, with access to pristine beaches and rustic lighthouses.
Travelers can visit places such as the Cape Cod National Seashore and Provincetown, known for its vibrant arts scene and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere. Cape Cod’s quintessential New England charm is on full display along Route 6.
15. Anchorage to Valdez, Alaska
The drive from Anchorage to Valdez promises an adventure through Alaska’s untamed wilderness, characterized by towering mountains, expansive glaciers, and stunning fjords. It’s a 300-mile stretch of awe-inspiring scenery and remote beauty.
Highlights include the stark, icy beauty of the Matanuska Glacier and the incredible harbors of Valdez. The route showcases Alaska’s rugged serenity, offering unparalleled opportunities for photography and outdoor activities.
16. Lemhi Pass, Montana and Idaho
Lemhi Pass, along the Lewis and Clark Trail, provides a historical journey enriched by panoramic views of the Bitterroot Mountains. This route retraces part of the explorers’ historic expedition through untouched wilderness.
In addition to its historical significance, Lemhi Pass offers unique opportunities for hiking and nature appreciation. The mix of history and scenic beauty makes this drive a compelling journey through America’s frontier past.
17. Silverado Trail, California
Silverado Trail in Napa Valley is synonymous with California’s wine country allure. The 29-mile route features picturesque vineyards, world-class wineries, and the rolling hills of Napa Valley.
As home to numerous acclaimed wineries, the Silverado Trail offers seamless access to wine tasting rooms and gourmet culinary experiences. It’s a delightful route for wine enthusiasts and those seeking scenic tranquility.
18. Ocean Drive, Newport, Rhode Island
Ocean Drive in Newport presents a short, yet stunning 10-mile journey along Rhode Island’s coastline. With ornate mansions lining the cliffs and panoramic ocean views, it’s a drive steeped in opulence and natural beauty.
Highlights include the iconic Breakers Mansion and the serene vistas of Brenton Point State Park. This drive offers a unique perspective on America’s Gilded Age while immersing travelers in the serene atmosphere of coastal Rhode Island.
19. Park Loop Road, Maine
Park Loop Road is a highlight of Acadia National Park, offering 27 miles of stunning Maine coastline and mountain vistas. Travelers can expect breathtaking views of rugged coastlines, serene forests, and the sparkling waters of the Atlantic.
Key stops include Cadillac Mountain, where sunrise is a must-see, and Sand Beach’s tranquil shores. With opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, the drive encapsulates the quintessential New England natural beauty.
20. Highway 143, Tennessee
Highway 143 in Tennessee winds through scenic areas like Roan Mountain State Park, offering a journey through wildflower-covered slopes and dense forests. This 12.5-mile route is renowned for breathtaking natural beauty and hiking opportunities.
Travelers can explore the rich biodiversity of the Appalachian Highlands and enjoy panoramic views from the peaks. The drive is particularly popular during June when the rhododendrons are in bloom, creating vibrant landscapes.
21. Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Michigan
Located within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive offers expansive views of Lake Michigan and the dunes. This 7.4-mile loop captures the essence of Michigan’s Great Lakes charm.
Highlights include the Lake Michigan Overlook, where visitors gaze across endless blue waters, and the scenic forest trails that invite exploration. It’s a route that offers serene beauty and outdoor recreation in equal measure.
22. The High Road to Taos, New Mexico
The High Road to Taos is a 56-mile journey through New Mexico’s high desert landscapes and artistic communities. The route leads from Santa Fe to Taos, revealing rolling hills, adobe villages, and an immersive cultural tapestry.
Highlights include visits to historic pueblos and artisan shops, offering insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage. The road is an artistic journey set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
23. Highway 2, Nebraska
Nebraska’s Highway 2, particularly the section known as the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway, offers a unique view into sprawling sand dunes and prairieland. It’s a 272-mile drive through the heart of Nebraska’s natural wonders.
Known for its quiet beauty, the route offers abundant birdwatching and peaceful rest stops amid the Sandhills. A serene journey through the quietude of Nebraska demonstrates the understated beauty of America’s heartland.
Lessons Learned
| Route | Key Highlights | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Hana Highway, Maui | Waterfalls, Rainforest, Black Sand Beaches | Year-round |
| Blue Ridge Parkway, the Carolinas and Virginia | Mountain Vistas, Cultural Centers | Spring & Autumn |
| Lake Shore Drive, Chicago | Skyline Views, Urban Parks | Spring & Summer |
| 17-Mile Drive, California | Coastal Views, Cypress Trees | Year-round |
| U.S. 1, Florida Keys | Ocean Views, Coral Reefs | Winter & Spring |
| Route 12, Utah | Red Rock Landscapes, National Parks | Spring & Fall |
| Bluebonnet Trail, Texas | Wildflowers, Scenic Hill Country | March – April |
| North Shore Drive, Minnesota | Lake Superior Views, Waterfalls | Summer & Fall |
| Trail Ridge Road, Colorado | Alpine Vistas, Wildlife | Summer |
| Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire | Foliage, Mountain Views | Autumn |
| Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana | Alpine Views, Logan Pass | Summer |
| Highway 101, Oregon | Coastal Scenery, Lighthouses | Summer |
| Olympic Peninsula Loop, Washington | Rainforest, Coastal Views | Summer |
| Route 6, Massachusetts | Charming Villages, Beaches | Summer |
| Anchorage to Valdez, Alaska | Glaciers, Fjords | Summer |
| Lemhi Pass, Montana and Idaho | Historical Journey, Mountain Views | Summer |
| Silverado Trail, California | Vineyards, Wineries | Spring & Fall |
| Ocean Drive, Newport, Rhode Island | Mansions, Ocean Vistas | Summer |
| Park Loop Road, Maine | Coastline, Mountains | Summer & Fall |
| Highway 143, Tennessee | Wildflowers, Mountain Views | June |
| Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Michigan | Lake Views, Dunes | Summer |
| The High Road to Taos, New Mexico | Desert Landscapes, Artisan Communities | Spring & Fall |
| Highway 2, Nebraska | Sand Dunes, Prairieland | Summer |
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