1. Beartooth Highway, Wyoming and Montana
Beartooth Highway, spanning 68 miles across Wyoming and Montana, offers a stunning drive through diverse landscapes. This route takes you through three national forests—Custer, Shoshone, and Gallatin—showcasing towering peaks, sprawling alpine meadows, glaciers, and postcard-worthy views at every turn.
As you ascend to just above 10,000 feet, you'll be greeted by snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes. For wildlife enthusiasts, mountain goats and bighorn sheep are frequent sights along the route, and the changes in elevation provide a natural showcase of diverse flora and fauna.
Open seasonally from late May to mid-October, the highway demands respect for its often unpredictable weather, so plan accordingly. Motorcyclists and RV travelers join the pilgrimage, seeking to soak up the panoramic vistas that define this route.
Whether you're into hiking, photography, or just driving for the sheer joy of it, the Beartooth Highway offers an unforgettable experience. Every mile offers a new vantage point, a fresh slice of American wilderness, waiting to be discovered from the comfort of your car.
2. Pacific Coast Highway, California
Stretching from San Diego to San Francisco, the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) showcases the unparalleled beauty of California's coastline while offering an unforgettable driving experience. One of the highlights is the stretch between Monterey and Big Sur, where rugged cliffs meet the turbulent sea in a dramatic dance of nature.
Driving leisurely along the route, you'll encounter diverse landscapes, from mist-shrouded redwood groves to sun-drenched beaches. Towns like Santa Barbara and Carmel-by-the-Sea exude their own unique charm, inviting exploration.
Photographers will find endless opportunities to capture the magic, whether it's the morning fog lifting from the ocean, craggy cliffs juxtaposed against turquoise waters, or golden hour illuminating a seaside village.
Don't miss a visit to Hearst Castle, perched high above the cliffs near San Simeon, an epitome of opulence and architectural grandeur. Further north, the 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach offers a mesmerizing detour laden with rocky coastal beauty, famed golf courses, and pleasant picnic spots.
The Pacific Coast Highway promises a soul-stirring experience that remains etched in memory long after the journey ends. With each mile, it unfurls a new chapter of California's magnificent story, making it a bucket-list adventure for any traveler.
3. Skyline Drive, Virginia
Skyline Drive, an iconic journey through Virginia's Shenandoah National Park, offers 105 miles of picturesque scenery, cradling the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With nearly 70 scenic overlooks, it invites you to pause, reflect, and soak in majestic views of the Piedmont and Shenandoah Valleys.
One of the most enchanting aspects is its accessibility to hiking trails, from leisurely paths leading to serene waterfalls to challenging hikes that ascend to lofty peaks. Deer are frequently spotted grazing by the roadside, while black bears and wild turkeys make occasional appearances.
Autumn transforms Skyline Drive into a vibrant corridor of red, orange, and yellow foliage. Yet, the drive is equally captivating in spring, when blooming wildflowers add splashes of color, and in winter, when a blanket of snow bestows a serene, silent beauty upon the mountains.
Skyline Drive encompasses numerous historical and cultural points of interest, with exhibits and markers that tell the story of the park's creation and the communities that once thrived here.
Ultimately, this road offers a sanctuary for those seeking solace in nature's grandeur, inviting all who travel its length to experience the timeless charm of Virginia's wilderness.
4. Route 66, Multiple States
Embark on the ultimate American road trip along Route 66, an iconic stretch of history and culture that spans from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. This 2,448-mile journey offers a nostalgic voyage through the heart of the United States, punctuated with quirky roadside attractions and quintessential Americana.
The route introduces you to scenic byways and classic diners, with highlights like:
- The Pontiac Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum
- The Gemini Giant in Wilmington
- Meramec Caverns near Stanton
In Oklahoma, don't miss the endearing Blue Whale of Catoosa and the vibrant cultural scenes of Tulsa and Oklahoma City. Texas greets you with the expansive plains and the legendary Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo.
New Mexico offers enchanting landscapes of the Southwest, with the historic town of Santa Fe and vibrant neon signs illuminating Albuquerque's night sky. Arizona's portion is replete with natural wonders like the Petrified Forest National Park and the iconic "Standing on a corner in Winslow" photo op.
The journey culminates on the Santa Monica Pier, where a sign marks the end of the road, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean greets you.
Route 66 is more than just a highway—it's a time machine, a cultural corridor that encapsulates the essence of a bygone era while remaining an ever-enticing journey for modern travelers.
5. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
Stretching over 469 miles, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers an unparalleled journey through the Appalachian Highlands, brimming with natural beauty and serene landscapes. This iconic route weaves through Virginia and North Carolina, providing travelers with a backdrop that is both diverse and enchanting.
The Parkway is famed for its panoramic vistas, particularly during the fall when the foliage transforms into a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows. The road is draped over the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, granting elevated perspectives that stretch to the horizon.
Numerous scenic overlooks and pullouts provide the perfect opportunity to pause, take a deep breath, and immerse oneself in the tranquil surroundings. These spots offer some of the best views the East Coast has to offer.
The route is also home to clear mountain springs and babbling brooks, which add a soothing soundtrack to your journey. Several hiking trails branch off from the main road, leading to waterfalls, secluded coves, and high mountain peaks.
Besides its natural wonders, the Blue Ridge Parkway boasts cultural and historical sites like Mabry Mill, where visitors can witness living history demonstrations and enjoy a pancake breakfast topped with locally sourced maple syrup.
Traversing the Blue Ridge Parkway is about embracing a slower pace, allowing yourself to meander through the landscape and truly connect with the natural world. It's an odyssey that calls to photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike, offering a continuous stream of picturesque moments and tranquil retreats.
6. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
Traverse Glacier National Park on this iconic 50-mile stretch, providing stunning views of snow-capped peaks, serene lakes, and vibrant wildflowers. Going-to-the-Sun Road winds through some of America's most breathtaking natural landscapes. Open seasonally from late June to October, this drive is a must for any road trip enthusiast or nature lover.
Starting from the park's west entrance near Apgar Village, the road initially wraps around the strikingly clear Lake McDonald. As you ascend, the landscape shifts dramatically, offering sweeping vistas of the Rocky Mountains. Logan Pass, the drive's highest point at 6,646 feet, overlooks Glacier National Park's rugged terrain with abundant hiking trails.
One of the road's highlights is the Loop, a sharp switchback tucked into the mountain, providing unrivaled views down onto the valleys below. The Weeping Wall, a cliffside where water cascades onto the road during early summer, adds an element of adventure.
Beyond its natural beauty, Going-to-the-Sun Road provides insights into the park's Native American and conservation history through visitor centers at Logan Pass and St. Mary.
Experiencing this route is an immersion into one of the planet's last wild frontiers. The sheer cliffs, dramatic mountain ranges, and expansive valleys are awe-inspiring, compelling every traveler to appreciate the majesty of nature.
7. Hana Highway, Hawaii
Hana Highway, a 64-mile journey, meanders through Maui's northeastern coastline, offering lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and historic bridges. With over 600 curves and 59 bridges, the drive demands attention while rewarding with breathtaking vistas.
Highlights include the series of waterfalls punctuating the drive, such as Twin Falls and the majestic Wailua Falls. The Ke'anae Peninsula offers a glimpse into traditional Hawaiian life, with taro fields stretching towards the ocean.
Hana itself is rich in cultural significance, with sites like the Hana Cultural Center and Museum. The nearby Hana Bay Beach Park provides a peaceful spot to relax on its black sand shores.
For a more immersive experience, venture to the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park, where the Pipiwai Trail leads through a bamboo forest to the towering Waimoku Falls.
Hana Highway promises a drive like no other, unfolding Maui's beauty from misty rainforests and towering waterfalls to quaint villages steeped in Hawaiian culture.
8. Great River Road, Multiple States
Stretching over 2,000 miles through 10 states, the Great River Road traces the majestic Mississippi River, offering an immersive experience into American history and culture.
The northern portion, through Minnesota and Wisconsin, is captivating in fall with its vibrant foliage. Towns like La Crosse and Dubuque blend river views with rich local culture.
In Illinois and Missouri, cities like Hannibal and St. Louis pulse with American history, from Mark Twain's boyhood home to the iconic Gateway Arch.
The Delta region, the birthplace of the blues, offers a glimpse into the soulful rhythm of cotton fields and juke joints.
As you reach Louisiana, the scenery transforms into lush bayous and marshlands, culminating in the vibrant cultural mix of New Orleans with its jazz music, French Quarter, and culinary feasts.
The Great River Road encapsulates the changing landscapes and enduring legacy of the Mississippi River, inviting travelers to witness the heart of America through its most iconic waterway.
9. Million Dollar Highway, Colorado
Traveling the Million Dollar Highway, a 25-mile stretch of U.S. Route 550 connecting Silverton and Ouray, is an exhilarating experience through Colorado's stunning alpine scenery.
From the start in Silverton, a former mining town, the highway immediately ascends, winding through switchbacks and hugging cliff edges with majestic peaks rising around you.
The route passes through the dramatic Uncompahgre Gorge, where cliffs tower above the road, creating a backdrop of rock faces and cascading waterfalls.
The lack of guardrails in many areas adds an extra layer of excitement, providing unobstructed views of the sprawling valleys, dense forests, and distant mountain ranges.
As you approach Ouray, often referred to as the "Switzerland of America," the landscape transforms into a scene of alpine splendor, with opportunities for hiking, ice climbing, and soaking in hot springs.
The changing light and weather conditions create a dynamic canvas for photography, from the golden glow of sunrise to the vibrant fall foliage or serene winter snowscapes.
The Million Dollar Highway offers a sensory feast, with the combination of thrilling driving and awe-inspiring scenery, making it a highlight for any road trip enthusiast seeking the ultimate scenic road experience.
10. Overseas Highway, Florida
Spanning a remarkable 113 miles from Key Largo to Key West, the Overseas Highway is an extraordinary journey that takes you on an unforgettable drive across the water. This highway is a marvel of engineering and an immersive experience of Florida's tropical allure, offering stunning views of the Florida Keys' azure waters at every turn.
As you continue southward, the highway elegantly skips from one key to another, with the seemingly endless expanse of turquoise water flanking both sides. Each bridge, particularly the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, offers dramatic, sweeping panoramic views that epitomize the dreamy allure of the Keys. Bahia Honda State Park, located around Mile Marker 37, presents the best beach experience in the Keys with its soft sand and gentle waves.
Beyond the scenic splendor, the Overseas Highway introduces you to the unique cultures and laid-back lifestyles of the Florida Keys. Small towns like Marathon and Islamorada punctuate the journey with charming attractions. Marathon's Turtle Hospital is a must-visit, offering insights into wildlife conservation efforts, while Islamorada, celebrated for its fishing heritage, promises tantalizing seafood and the opportunity to reel in a trophy fish.
The journey is accentuated by a series of quirky roadside attractions that add a whimsical element to your drive. Take a moment to snap a photo with the "African Queen," the steamboat made famous by the Humphrey Bogart film, docked in Key Largo. The History of Diving Museum in Islamorada offers a captivating deep dive into the evolution of underwater exploration.
As you approach the southernmost point, Key West, the energy transforms. Known for its eclectic atmosphere, historic architecture, and vibrant nightlife, Key West embodies the end-of-the-road spirit. Stroll along Duval Street to soak in the lively scene, explore the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, or simply relax with a mojito as you watch the stunning sunset at Mallory Square—a fitting conclusion to your transoceanic adventure.
For photographers, the Overseas Highway is an unending source of inspiration. Early morning light casts a golden glow over the serene waters, while sunset brings a palette of fiery colors that reflect in the tranquil sea. Each bridge and vista creates unique opportunities for capturing the interplay of land, water, and sky.
The Overseas Highway is not merely a road; it is a journey across some of the most captivating seascapes in the world. It offers a seamless blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and engineering brilliance. Whether you're indulging in outdoor activities, absorbing local culture, or simply enjoying the drive, this highway promises a heart-stirring adventure that epitomizes the enchanting spirit of the Florida Keys.
11. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
Nestled in the heart of New England, the Kancamagus Highway stands as a testament to the timeless allure of natural beauty. This 34.5-mile stretch, winding through the White Mountains, offers an immersive experience that is breathtaking regardless of the season. The Kancamagus Highway, affectionately known as "The Kanc," is a quintessential New England drive that captivates with its blend of history, nature, and scenic splendor.
One of the highway's most compelling features is its enchanting display of autumn foliage. During the fall, this route transforms into a vibrant corridor of fiery reds, oranges, and yellows. The dense forest lining the highway bursts into color, creating a canopy that frames the road in a kaleidoscope of hues.
The highway also boasts numerous covered bridges, each exuding a sense of nostalgia and historical charm. The Albany Covered Bridge, dating back to 1858, is a particularly cherished spot. Its rustic wooden structure spans the Swift River, creating an idyllic scene that feels plucked from a bygone era.
As you navigate the Kancamagus Highway, various scenic pullouts invite you to pause and absorb the panoramic views. The vistas along the Pemigewasset Overlook and the Kancamagus Pass provide sweeping sights of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
For the avid hiker, the highway grants access to a network of trails that cater to various skill levels. The Champney Falls Trail offers a moderate hike to another stunning set of waterfalls, while the more challenging Mount Chocorua Trail rewards with majestic summit views.
In winter, the Kancamagus Highway is equally enchanting, blanketed in snow and offering a serene, quiet beauty. While sections may occasionally close due to heavy snowfall, the open stretches promise a peaceful drive through a winter wonderland.
The Kancamagus Highway is more than just a road; it's an experience that encapsulates the diverse and dynamic beauty of New England. Whether you're visiting for the fall colors, the historic bridges, the hiking trails, or simply the serene drive through the White Mountains, the Kancamagus Highway promises an unforgettable journey. This drive, with its ever-changing vistas and year-round appeal, stands as a testament to the enduring charm of the New England countryside.
12. Icefields Parkway, Alberta, Canada
Linking Banff and Jasper National Parks, the Icefields Parkway stands as one of the most awe-inspiring drives in the world. This 144-mile stretch through Alberta, Canada, is a corridor of pure natural splendor, brimming with glaciers, alpine meadows, crystalline lakes, and towering peaks that pierce the sky.
A standout feature of the Icefields Parkway is its unparalleled access to some of the most significant glacial formations in North America. Athabasca Glacier, part of the Columbia Icefield, is a must-visit. Here, specialized tours offer the unique experience of walking on the glacier itself.
As the road ventures north, the scenery shifts and evolves, displaying an incredible array of geologic marvels. The Weeping Wall is an iconic roadside spectacle where numerous waterfalls cascade down a cliffside, creating an ethereal, misty tableau.
Lake Louise offers a serene pause in your journey. With its strikingly blue waters and surrounding rugged peaks, it's a scene straight out of a postcard. Whether you're kayaking on the mirror-like surface or hiking one of the surrounding trails, the lake's tranquil ambiance is a refreshing counterpoint to the raw grandeur of the glacier fields.
Photographers and nature enthusiasts will find endless inspiration along this route. Peyto Lake, known for its wolf-head shape and surreal blue water, presents a striking subject for your camera lens, particularly when viewed from the observation deck high above.
For those keen on wildlife, the Icefields Parkway does not disappoint. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of:
- Mountain goats
- Elk
- Black bears foraging by the roadside
Continuing towards Jasper, each mile further immerses you in the rugged beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Bow Lake, framed by towering peaks and fed by glacial waters, provides another perfect stopping point for reflection. As you approach the northern end near Jasper, one of the highlights is Sunwapta Falls, where the river's powerful flow plunges majestically into a deep canyon.
Open year-round but most accessible between June and September, the Icefields Parkway is as much about the adventure as it is about the destination. Whether under a sky of endless blue or bathed in the soft glow of twilight, every moment spent on this road is a testament to the unparalleled beauty of the Canadian Rockies. It's an expedition that doesn't just transport you physically but also profoundly reconnects you with the raw, untamed majesty of nature.
