America has some of the most beautiful landscapes on Earth, and there are plenty of scenic drives around the country that showcase dramatic landscapes and dreamy sunsets. Here are 10 scenic drives in America that every traveler should consider.
Before embarking on your adventure, ensure you check health and safety regulations in any area you are traveling to, as well as the weather conditions. Mountain roads in particular can be subject to closures due to snow. Consequently, make sure your car is prepared for the journey to enjoy a hassle-free experience.
Going-To-The-Sun Road – Glacier, Montana
Going-To-The-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, Montana, stretches nearly 50 miles through the beautiful Rocky Mountains. This iconic road provides access to Logan Pass at the Continental Divide. The road is so winding that it can take up to ten weeks for snow plows to clear it each year; thus, the best time to visit is later in the summer and early autumn. For a comfortable stay, consider lodging on the western edge of the park in Kalispell, which also features an airport.
Skyline Drive – Shenandoah, Virginia
Skyline Drive is an enchanting 105-mile mountain road that traverses the length of Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, beginning in Front Royal, which is about an hour west of Washington, DC. This beautiful drive features 75 overlooks, providing stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Piedmont. It is particularly captivating during the summer and autumn seasons. Drivers should allocate a full day to enjoy Skyline Drive and plan a stop to watch an evening sunset from one of the west-facing overlooks.
California State Route 180 (King’s Canyon Scenic Byway)
This scenic byway allows travelers to journey through two National Parks in quick succession. The first stop is the General Grant Grove of Giant Sequoias located in Sequoia National Park. The route continues for another 50 miles, guiding drivers through the stunning Western Sierra to King’s Canyon National Park, an often-overlooked gem in the National Park system. Fresno, California, serves as the nearest major city to King’s Canyon.
Cades Cove Loop
The 11-mile Cades Cove Loop, nestled deep within Great Smoky Mountain National Park, is ideal for a leisurely drive. Allocate 2 to 3 hours to explore an early 1800s European settlement while enjoying the fresh mountain air and stunning scenery. Remember to pack a picnic and stop at Cable Mill, which has restroom facilities. For convenient accommodations, the nearby town of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offers plenty of options, with Knoxville, Tennessee, being the closest airport.
The Overseas Highway: Miami to Key West
The 110-mile Overseas Highway connects Miami to Key West, leading drivers through all the beautiful Keys. As you drive, you will experience the salt air and sunshine, with plenty of charming spots to explore along the way. There are beaches with public access and unique local art gardens. Upon arrival, you will find yourself in the vibrant and beautiful Key West.
North Cascades Scenic Byway
The North Cascades Scenic Byway in Northern Washington represents the most mountainous and thrilling road within the park. Travelers can experience turquoise blue glacier lakes and expansive mountain vistas. Make sure to stop for a photo opportunity at the Washington Pass Overlook. Explore quaint towns from the 1920s along the route, and immerse yourself in the outdoor beauty of Methow Valley. As with most mountain routes, this road is closed during winter due to snow. The nearest airport is in Seattle.
Beartooth Highway – Southwest Montana
This spectacular 68-mile mountain pass leads from the town of Red Lodge through Southwest Montana, culminating at the northern entrance to Yellowstone National Park. The route traverses the breathtaking Beartooth Mountains, which are among the most remote and ecologically diverse regions of the United States. Offering stunning vistas as it climbs through the mountains, this drive should not be missed. The nearest major airport is in Billings, Montana.
US Rt 163 (Monument Valley, Utah)
US Rt 163 is a 64-mile highway that runs from Arizona through the Navajo Nation in Southern Utah, showcasing the dramatic landscapes of Monument Valley. The iconic red rocks and cliffs represent one of the most photographed scenes in America, offering a sense of space and tranquility. Plan at least two hours to complete this beautiful drive, and be sure to stop for photography, especially during the stunning sunsets. The nearest major airport to Monument Valley is in Flagstaff, Arizona.
Park Loop Road – Acadia National Park, Maine
The 27-mile Park Loop Road serves as the primary road around Mount Desert Island in Acadia National Park. This scenic route offers breathtaking ocean views where rocky shores meet the water, and the forest transforms with the seasons. Therefore, it’s essential to plan extra time for hiking and photography. For economical lodging options, consider accommodations in nearby Bangor, Maine.
Trail Ridge Road – Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
The Trail Ridge Road is a 48-mile mountain route, affectionately known as the ‘Highway to the Sky.’ This roadway commences in Estes Park in the east and extends to Grand Lake in the west. It ascends over 4,000 feet above the tree line within Rocky Mountain National Park. Recognized as the highest elevation paved road in Colorado, it features numerous hairpin turns. Therefore, allocate at least half a day to fully enjoy this spectacular journey. The nearest major airport is situated in Denver.
