The Ultimate Guide to Scenic Drives in the United States
Are you ready for an adventure that combines stunning natural beauty, thrilling twists and turns, and unforgettable memories? Look no further! The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the world. From the Pacific Coast Highway to the Blue Ridge Parkway, we've got you covered with our top picks for the best places to go on a scenic drive.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
This iconic 655-mile stretch along California's coastline is a must-drive experience. Wind your way through towering redwoods, sun-kissed beaches, and quaint coastal towns like Big Sur and Carmel-by-the-Sea. Be sure to stop at famous attractions like Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, and Hearst Castle.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina and Virginia)
Spanning 469 miles, this scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains is a nature lover's paradise. Enjoy breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, waterfalls, and forests as you cruise along this protected parkway. Don't miss the iconic Linn Cove Viaduct and the stunning Grandfather Mountain.
3. Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)
This 3,000-mile journey along the Mississippi River takes you through eight states, each with its unique charm and attractions. From the majestic St. Paul Cathedral to the steamboat-filled harbor of New Orleans, this drive is steeped in American history and culture.
4. Beartooth Highway (Montana and Wyoming)
For a taste of the Wild West, take on the Beartooth Highway, a 68-mile stretch of mountainous beauty. Witness towering peaks, glaciers, and waterfalls as you traverse this rugged landscape. Don't miss the stunning Rock Creek Canyon and the majestic Granite Peak.
5. Overseas Highway (Florida)
This 113-mile drive takes you across seven islands in the Florida Keys, offering a tropical getaway like no other. Cruise through vibrant Key West, explore the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and sun-kissed beaches.
6. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
In Glacier National Park, this 50-mile drive takes you across the Continental Divide, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, alpine lakes, and towering peaks. Be sure to stop at the Logan Pass Visitor Center and explore the stunning Lake McDonald.
7. San Juan Skyway (Colorado)
This 236-mile loop through southwestern Colorado offers a mix of mountain vistas, charming towns, and historic mining sites. Drive through the stunning San Juan Mountains, visit the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park, and explore the quaint town of Durango.
8. Tioga Road (California)
In Yosemite National Park, this 48-mile drive takes you through some of America's most spectacular mountain scenery. Witness towering granite cliffs, tranquil meadows, and sparkling lakes as you cruise along this scenic route.
9. Red River Gorge (Kentucky)
This 20-mile stretch in eastern Kentucky is a rock climber's paradise. Drive through the stunning natural beauty of the gorge, explore the Daniel Boone National Forest, and enjoy the charming town of Slade.
10. Hana Highway (Hawaii)
On the island of Maui, this 52-mile drive along the coast takes you on a tropical adventure. Visit secluded beaches, waterfalls, and rainforests as you cruise through this lush landscape. Be sure to stop at the stunning Wai'anapanapa State Park and the picturesque town of Hana.
Whether you're seeking relaxation, excitement, or cultural enrichment, these top scenic drives in the United States have something for everyone. So pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
The Pacific Coast Highway is an iconic 655-mile stretch along California's coastline that offers stunning natural beauty, thrilling twists and turns, and unforgettable memories.
Spanning 469 miles, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a nature lover's paradise that offers breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, waterfalls, and forests as you cruise along this protected parkway.
Some famous attractions on the Pacific Coast Highway include Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, Hearst Castle, Big Sur, and Carmel-by-the-Sea.
The Great River Road is a 3,000-mile journey along the Mississippi River that takes you through eight states, each with its unique charm and attractions.
The Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile stretch of mountainous beauty that offers towering peaks, glaciers, waterfalls, and Rock Creek Canyon, as well as the majestic Granite Peak.
The Overseas Highway is an 113-mile drive across seven islands in the Florida Keys, offering a tropical getaway like no other, with attractions such as Key West, Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and crystal-clear waters and sun-kissed beaches.
In Glacier National Park, this 50-mile drive takes you across the Continental Divide, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, alpine lakes, and towering peaks, including Logan Pass Visitor Center and Lake McDonald.
This 236-mile loop through southwestern Colorado offers a mix of mountain vistas, charming towns, and historic mining sites, including Mesa Verde National Park and the quaint town of Durango.
In Yosemite National Park, this 48-mile drive takes you through some of America's most spectacular mountain scenery, featuring towering granite cliffs, tranquil meadows, and sparkling lakes.
On the island of Maui, this 52-mile drive along the coast takes you on a tropical adventure, visiting secluded beaches, waterfalls, rainforests, Wai'anapanapa State Park, and the picturesque town of Hana.
Scenic Drive Comparison Table
| Scenic Drive | Length (miles) |
|---|---|
| Pacific Coast Highway | 655 |
| Blue Ridge Parkway | 469 |
| Great River Road | 3,000 |
| Beartooth Highway | 68 |
| Overseas Highway | 113 |
| Going-to-the-Sun Road | 50 |
| San Juan Skyway | 236 |
| Tioga Road | 48 |
| Red River Gorge | 20 |
| Hana Highway | 52 |
Note: The comparison table is not exhaustive and only includes the information provided in the source text.