The United States, One Road at a Time
Few countries offer the geographic variety of the United States – deserts, mountains, coastlines, forests, and farmlands all woven together by a complex network of highways and byways. For those who believe the journey is as important as the destination, the U.S. offers the best scenic drives.
Whether you’re hugging the Pacific Coast, winding through the Appalachians, or crossing the deserts of the Southwest, America’s scenic drives turn every mile into a photo opportunity. Here are 10 of the best scenic drives across the U.S., each one an unforgettable experience in its own right.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
Route: San Francisco to San Diego
Distance: Approx. 655 miles
Possibly the most iconic road in America, California’s Highway 1 hugs the state’s dramatic coastline. From the towering cliffs of Big Sur to the sandy beaches of Santa Monica, this is a must-drive for ocean lovers and anyone craving west coast vibes.
Highlights: Bixby Bridge, Big Sur, Malibu, Santa Barbara
Best Time to Drive: Spring or fall
2. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)
Route: Shenandoah National Park (VA) to Great Smoky Mountains (NC)
Distance: 469 miles
Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a winding journey through Appalachian highlands, hardwood forests, and ridge-top overlooks. It’s especially magical in the fall, when the leaves ignite in a blaze of reds and oranges.
Highlights: Mabry Mill, Linville Falls, Craggy Gardens
Best Time to Drive: Late September to mid-October
3. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Route: Glacier National Park
Distance: 50 miles
This alpine highway cuts through the heart of Glacier National Park, offering jaw-dropping views of glacial valleys, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped peaks. It’s a masterpiece of road engineering, with hairpin turns and dramatic drop-offs.
Highlights: Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, Jackson Glacier Overlook
Best Time to Drive: July to September (only open in summer)
4. Route 12 (Utah’s Scenic Byway 12)
Route: Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef National Park
Distance: 122 miles
Carving through Utah’s red rock country, this drive is a surreal journey through canyons, cliffs, arches, and ancient plateaus. With some of the most otherworldly landscapes in the U.S., Scenic Byway 12 is a hidden gem.
Highlights: Grand Staircase-Escalante, Boulder Mountain, Calf Creek Falls
Best Time to Drive: Spring or fall
5. Overseas Highway (Florida Keys)
Route: Miami to Key West
Distance: 113 miles
Spanning more than 40 bridges over shimmering turquoise waters, the Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1) is like driving on the ocean. It connects a chain of tropical islands with palm trees, coral reefs, and salty air.
Highlights: Seven Mile Bridge, Islamorada, Bahia Honda State Park
Best Time to Drive: December to April
6. Columbia River Scenic Highway (Oregon)
Route: Troutdale to The Dalles
Distance: 75 miles
This historic highway winds along the Columbia River Gorge, surrounded by towering cliffs, waterfalls, and lush forests. It’s perfect for travelers who want a scenic drive with plenty of hiking stops along the way.
Highlights: Multnomah Falls, Vista House, Horsetail Falls
Best Time to Drive: April to October
7. Beartooth Highway (Montana & Wyoming)
Route: Red Lodge (MT) to Cooke City (WY)
Distance: 68 miles
At over 10,000 feet above sea level, Beartooth Highway is one of the highest paved roads in the country and easily one of the most beautiful. With switchbacks, alpine lakes, and snowy peaks, it’s a ride made for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Highlights: Beartooth Pass, Rock Creek Vista Point
Best Time to Drive: June to September (weather-dependent)
8. Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire)
Route: Lincoln to Conway
Distance: 34 miles
This short but stunning route in the White Mountains offers mountain views, covered bridges, and vibrant foliage. In the fall, it becomes one of the best leaf-peeping destinations in all of New England.
Highlights: Sabbaday Falls, Albany Covered Bridge, Rocky Gorge
Best Time to Drive: Late September to early October
9. Route 66 (Selected Segments)
Route: Chicago to Santa Monica (Full route is 2,400+ miles)
Although Route 66 is no longer a full highway, its preserved segments are steeped in Americana. Drive it for the nostalgia, neon signs, vintage diners, and classic roadside attractions.
Highlights: Cadillac Ranch (TX), Wigwam Motel (AZ), Route 66 Museum (OK)
Best Time to Drive: Spring or fall
10. Trail Ridge Road (Colorado)
Route: Estes Park to Grand Lake
Distance: 48 miles
Located within Rocky Mountain National Park, this road climbs to 12,183 feet and offers panoramic views of alpine tundra, pine forests, and snow-dusted peaks. It’s also home to elk, marmots, and bighorn sheep.
Highlights: Alpine Visitor Center, Forest Canyon Overlook
Best Time to Drive: Mid-June to early October
Conclusion: The Beauty of the Journey
These 10 scenic drives across the U.S. offer more than just stunning views – they provide transformative travel experiences. From coastal cliffs and desert canyons to mountain passes and island highways, each route reveals a new face of America’s vast and varied landscape.
Whether you’re seeking serenity, adventure, or simply the joy of the open road, these iconic drives are your invitation to slow down, roll down the windows, and let the journey become the destination.
FAQs: Best Scenic Drives Around the U.S.
Are these scenic drives suitable for RVs or trailers?
Most are, but steep or narrow roads like Going-to-the-Sun Road or Beartooth Highway may be restricted for larger vehicles – always check local guidelines.
Do I need a national parks pass for these routes?
Some drives pass through or begin inside national parks (e.g., Trail Ridge Road, Route 12), so a pass may be required for full access.
When is the best time to plan a road trip in the U.S.?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and fewer crowds, though some high-altitude roads only open in summer.
Can I do these scenic drives in a rental car?
Yes! All listed drives are accessible by standard rental vehicles unless road conditions require 4WD (rare, but possible in Utah or Montana in shoulder seasons).
How many days should I allow for each drive?
Some drives can be done in a few hours, but ideally, plan 1-3 days to fully enjoy stops, sights, and experiences along the way.
