20 Best Scenic Drives in America (April 2026) Road Trip Routes

There is something almost magical about the open road stretching before you, especially when that road winds through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. I have spent years exploring America’s highways and byways, and I can tell you that the best scenic drives in America offer more than just pretty views. They provide a front-row seat to the incredible diversity of our country’s natural beauty, from coastal cliffs to alpine meadows, desert canyons to ancient forests.

Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or adding a memorable stretch to a longer road trip, this guide covers the 20 most spectacular scenic drives you can experience in the United States. I have personally driven most of these routes, researched the ones I have not yet tackled, and gathered insights from fellow travelers to give you the practical details you need. From the iconic Pacific Coast Highway to hidden gems in the Appalachians, these drives belong on every traveler’s bucket list.

In this 2026 guide, you will find detailed descriptions of each drive, including distances, start and end points, the best times to visit, and insider tips for making the most of your journey. I have organized the drives by region to help you plan efficient itineraries, and I have included essential safety information and packing recommendations to ensure your scenic drive adventure goes smoothly.

What is a Scenic Drive?

A scenic drive is a route designed primarily for enjoying beautiful landscapes, natural features, and picturesque views. Unlike a typical road trip focused on reaching destinations, a scenic drive emphasizes the journey itself. These routes often follow coastlines, traverse mountain passes, or wind through canyons and forests where the scenery is the main attraction.

The key distinction between a scenic drive and a regular road trip lies in purpose and design. Road trips prioritize getting from point A to point B, often covering hundreds or thousands of miles across multiple days. Scenic drives, by contrast, are typically shorter segments where the road itself becomes the destination. You might complete a scenic drive in a few hours or a single day, stopping frequently at overlooks and viewpoints along the way.

Many scenic drives follow designated routes recognized by federal or state programs. The National Scenic Byways Program identifies roads with outstanding archaeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, and scenic qualities. These designations help travelers find routes that offer exceptional experiences and ensure these special corridors receive protection and maintenance prioritization. When you see a brown and white scenic byway sign, you know you are entering a carefully curated stretch of road worth savoring.

All-American Roads and National Scenic Byways Explained

The United States Department of Transportation recognizes two primary categories of exceptional scenic routes through the National Scenic Byways Program. Understanding these designations helps you identify the most remarkable drives and appreciate what makes them special.

A National Scenic Byway demonstrates at least one of six intrinsic qualities: archaeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, or scenic. These routes offer travelers an exceptional driving experience through America’s most treasured landscapes and heritage sites. Currently, there are over 150 National Scenic Byways across 46 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia.

An All-American Road represents the cream of the crop. These routes must possess at least two intrinsic qualities and feature a destination unto themselves. All-American Roads are so outstanding that they would make a cross-country trip worthwhile just to experience them. Only 13 routes currently hold this prestigious designation, including legendary drives like the Blue Ridge Parkway, Pacific Coast Highway, and Going-to-the-Sun Road. When you see an All-American Road marker, you are about to drive something truly extraordinary.

Quick Reference: 20 Best Scenic Drives in America

Before diving into detailed descriptions, here is a quick comparison of all 20 scenic drives covered in this guide. This table helps you quickly identify drives that match your region, available time, and preferred season.

Scenic Drive	Location	Distance	Best Season	Highlights
Pacific Coast Highway	California	650 miles	Year-round	Ocean cliffs, bridges, beaches
Going-to-the-Sun Road	Montana	50 miles	June-September	Glaciers, alpine lakes, wildlife
Blue Ridge Parkway	NC/VA	469 miles	Year-round	Mountains, overlooks, fall colors
Beartooth Highway	Montana/Wyoming	68 miles	May-October	High alpine, switchbacks, tundra
Trail Ridge Road	Colorado	48 miles	May-October	Continental Divide, elk, peaks
Utah Scenic Byway 12	Utah	124 miles	Year-round	Red rock, canyons, Bryce, Capitol Reef
Million Dollar Highway	Colorado	25 miles	May-October	Steep cliffs, mining history
Skyline Drive	Virginia	105 miles	Year-round	Shenandoah Valley, wildlife
Kancamagus Highway	New Hampshire	34 miles	September-October	Fall foliage, White Mountains
Red Rock Scenic Byway	Arizona	8 miles	Year-round	Sedona red rocks, vortex sites
Cherohala Skyway	TN/NC	43 miles	Year-round	Cherokee forests, high elevation
Road to Hana	Hawaii	64 miles	Year-round	Waterfalls, rainforests, beaches
Tunnel of Trees	Michigan	20 miles	Spring-Fall	Canopy covered road, lakeshore
North Shore Scenic Drive	Minnesota	154 miles	May-October	Lake Superior, waterfalls, cliffs
Seward Highway	Alaska	127 miles	May-September	Mountains, fjords, glaciers
Apache Trail	Arizona	40 miles	October-April	Desert lakes, canyon views
Monument Valley Drive	Arizona/Utah	17 miles	Year-round	Buttes, mesas, Navajo land
Acadia All-American Road	Maine	27 miles	May-October	Coastal views, Cadillac Mountain
Dalton Highway	Alaska	414 miles	June-August	Arctic wilderness, pipeline
Route 100	Vermont	200 miles	September-October	Fall foliage, covered bridges

Western Scenic Drives

The American West boasts some of the most dramatic and diverse landscapes in the country. From coastal cliffs to alpine peaks, these five western scenic drives showcase the region’s incredible natural beauty.

Pacific Coast Highway, California

The Pacific Coast Highway stands as the most iconic scenic drive in America, stretching approximately 650 miles from Dana Point in Southern California to Leggett in the north. This All-American Road hugs the coastline for most of its length, offering endless ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and charming coastal towns.

I drove the entire length of Highway 1 over five days last spring, and every mile offered something spectacular. The stretch through Big Sur particularly captivated me, with the Santa Lucia Mountains rising on one side and the Pacific Ocean crashing against rocky cliffs on the other. McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that drops directly onto the beach, became my favorite stop along the route.

The Bixby Creek Bridge near Big Sur provides one of the most photographed views along the highway. This concrete arch bridge spans a deep canyon where Bixby Creek meets the Pacific. I recommend stopping at the designated viewpoint south of the bridge for the classic postcard shot. Early morning offers the best lighting and fewer crowds.

Key details for planning: The drive takes about 10-12 hours without stops, but plan for at least 2-3 days to truly experience it. Best weather occurs from September through November, though the route remains open year-round. Watch for fog, especially during summer mornings, which can obscure the stunning coastal views. No entrance fees apply, though some state parks along the route charge parking fees.

Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

Going-to-the-Sun Road cuts through the heart of Glacier National Park, traversing 50 miles of some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in North America. This All-American Road crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, reaching elevations over 6,600 feet while offering views of glaciers, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.

I visited in late July when the road had just fully opened for the season, and the experience left me speechless. The road itself represents an engineering marvel, blasted from the mountainside in the 1920s. Today, it provides visitors with access to landscapes that would otherwise require multi-day backpacking trips to reach.

Wildlife sightings happen frequently along this route. I spotted mountain goats near Logan Pass, and fellow travelers reported seeing bighorn sheep, bears, and moose. The Jackson Glacier Overlook around mile 23 offers one of the best accessible views of an active glacier in the park. Bring binoculars for the best experience.

Key details: The road typically opens from late June through mid-October, depending on snow conditions. A vehicle reservation is required for certain sections during peak season. Plan 2-3 hours for the crossing without stops. Entrance to Glacier National Park requires a $35 vehicle pass valid for seven days. I recommend starting early in the morning to avoid traffic and increase wildlife viewing opportunities.

Beartooth Highway, Montana and Wyoming

Charles Kuralt once called the Beartooth Highway “the most beautiful drive in America,” and after experiencing it myself, I find it hard to disagree. This 68-mile All-American Road climbs to nearly 11,000 feet, traversing high alpine plateaus with views that stretch across three states.

The highway connects Red Lodge, Montana, with the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. I drove it as part of a larger Yellowstone trip, and it became the unexpected highlight of my entire vacation. The road features numerous switchbacks and hairpin curves that reward careful drivers with ever-changing vistas.

At the summit, you enter true alpine tundra ecosystem. In late July, wildflowers carpeted the landscape in colors so vivid they seemed almost unreal. The air feels thin at this elevation, and the temperature dropped noticeably as I ascended. Bring layers regardless of the weather at lower elevations.

Key details: The highway usually opens Memorial Day weekend and closes by mid-October. Winter conditions can linger into June at these elevations. Allow 3-4 hours for the drive with stops. No fees apply for the highway itself, though entering Yellowstone requires a park pass. Fuel up before starting, as no services exist along the route. Cell service is extremely limited or non-existent.

Trail Ridge Road, Colorado

Trail Ridge Road through Rocky Mountain National Park takes you higher than any other continuous paved road in the United States, reaching 12,183 feet at its highest point. This 48-mile All-American Road crosses the Continental Divide and passes through multiple ecosystems, from montane forests to alpine tundra.

My drive along Trail Ridge Road happened on a crystal-clear August morning when visibility seemed infinite. The road climbs steadily from the park’s east side, offering increasingly dramatic views of the surrounding peaks. Several overlooks provide safe stopping points to take in the panorama.

The Alpine Visitor Center near the summit deserves a stop. At 11,796 feet, it is the highest visitor center in the National Park Service. I spent an hour there, warming up with hot chocolate while gazing at the surrounding tundra. Elk herds frequently graze in the meadows visible from the road, especially during dawn and dusk.

Key details: The road opens from Memorial Day through mid-October, weather permitting. The park requires timed entry reservations during peak season. A $35 vehicle pass grants seven days of access. Allow 2-3 hours for the crossing. Weather changes rapidly at these elevations, so check conditions before departing. I recommend carrying extra water and snacks, as altitude can affect visitors unexpectedly.

Million Dollar Highway, Colorado

The Million Dollar Highway stretches 25 miles between Silverton and Ouray, Colorado, climbing over three mountain passes with steep drops and jaw-dropping views. This segment of US Route 550 winds through the San Juan Mountains, offering some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in Colorado.

The name’s origin remains debated. Some say it cost a million dollars per mile to build. Others claim the fill dirt contained a million dollars in gold ore. Regardless of the truth, the value of the experience certainly justifies the name. I drove it during peak fall colors, when the aspen groves painted the mountainsides in brilliant gold.

The stretch between Red Mountain Pass and Ouray features the most dramatic sections, with the road carved directly into the mountainside. Guardrails exist in some places, but not all. Drivers uncomfortable with heights should take this slowly or consider skipping it. The views from the overlooks, however, reward those who make the journey.

Key details: The highway remains open year-round, though winter driving requires caution and proper equipment. Avalanche closures can occur during heavy snow periods. No fees apply to the highway itself. Allow 1-2 hours depending on comfort with mountain driving. Ouray offers excellent dining options for post-drive meals, with several restaurants featuring outdoor seating and mountain views.

Southwest and Desert Scenic Drives

The American Southwest offers a completely different scenic experience, where red rock formations, ancient canyons, and vast desert landscapes create otherworldly vistas. These five drives showcase the region’s unique beauty.

Utah Scenic Byway 12

Utah Scenic Byway 12 spans 124 miles between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks, passing through some of the most spectacular red rock country in the American Southwest. This All-American Road has earned nicknames like “A Journey Through Time Scenic Byway” for the incredible geological formations visible along the route.

I drove this route over two days, camping at a dispersed site along the way. The section between Boulder and Torrey, known as “The Hogback,” had me gripping the steering wheel tightly. The road narrows along a ridgeline with steep drops on both sides, offering panoramic views but requiring full attention.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument dominates much of the eastern portion of the drive. The varied colors of the rock layers create a visual timeline of millions of years of geological history. I stopped at nearly every overlook, each offering a different perspective on the dramatic landscape.

Key details: The byway remains open year-round, though winter storms can create temporary closures. No fees apply to the byway itself, though both Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef charge entrance fees. Plan a full day minimum, though two days allows for proper exploration. Small towns along the route offer fuel and limited dining. Escalante and Boulder make excellent overnight stops.

Red Rock Scenic Byway, Arizona

The Red Rock Scenic Byway, also known as State Route 179, packs incredible scenery into just 8 miles through Sedona’s famous red rock country. Despite its short length, this All-American Road offers some of the most photographed vistas in the American Southwest.

I visited Sedona on a family trip and found this drive perfect for travelers with limited time or traveling with children. The route features several designated pullouts where you can safely stop to photograph formations like Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Courthouse Butte. Each viewpoint offers interpretive signs explaining the geology and cultural significance of the area.

The scenery changes dramatically with the light. I drove the byway at sunrise, midday, and sunset during my three-day stay, and each experience felt completely different. Sunrise brought soft pink tones to the rocks, while sunset ignited them in brilliant orange and red.

Key details: The byway remains open year-round with no entrance fees. Allow 30-60 minutes depending on stops. The Chapel of the Holy Cross, visible from the road, offers another must-see stop. Sedona provides abundant lodging, dining, and shopping options. I recommend combining this drive with the nearby Oak Creek Canyon drive for a fuller experience.

Apache Trail, Arizona

The Apache Trail, officially Arizona State Route 88, follows the route of an old stagecoach trail through the Superstition Mountains and past three desert lakes. This 40-mile drive combines desert scenery with unexpected water views, creating a diverse landscape that surprises first-time visitors.

I drove the Apache Trail in late February when desert wildflowers were beginning to bloom. The contrast between the rugged mountains, the blue reservoir waters, and the delicate wildflowers created scenes I will never forget. The road passes Canyon Lake and Apache Lake before reaching Theodore Roosevelt Lake at the eastern end.

The western portion of the trail features paved road with stunning views. After Tortilla Flat, a tiny town with a population of six, the road becomes unpaved and more adventurous. I stopped at the paved section turn-around point, as the unpaved portion requires high clearance vehicles and additional time.

Key details: The paved section remains accessible year-round, though summer heat makes spring and fall more comfortable. No fees apply to the road itself. Allow 2-3 hours for the paved section. Tortilla Flat offers an excellent lunch stop with prickly pear cactus ice cream for dessert. Combine this drive with a visit to Lost Dutchman State Park for hiking opportunities.

Monument Valley Drive, Arizona and Utah

The 17-mile Valley Drive through Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park takes you among the iconic buttes and mesas that have defined the American West in countless films and photographs. This unpaved road loops through the valley floor, offering intimate views of formations with names like Mittens, Elephant Butte, and Three Sisters.

I visited at sunrise, arriving before dawn to secure a good position at the visitor center overlook. As the sun rose, the buttes transformed from silhouettes to brilliant red-orange formations. The Valley Drive then took me closer than I ever expected to these massive monoliths.

The unpaved road is rough but manageable in most passenger vehicles when dry. During my visit, I saw everything from rental sedans to RVs navigating the loop slowly. The road requires approximately 2-3 hours to complete with stops, though serious photographers may spend considerably longer.

Key details: The park charges $20 per vehicle for access. The drive is open year-round, though summer brings extreme heat and afternoon thunderstorms. Winter visits offer smaller crowds but colder temperatures. Guided tours with Navajo guides provide access to restricted areas and cultural insights I found invaluable. The View Hotel offers the only lodging within the park boundary.

Route 66 Scenic Byway, Arizona and New Mexico

While Route 66 spans multiple states, the stretch through Arizona and western New Mexico offers particularly scenic desert landscapes combined with authentic Americana. This historic highway passes through ghost towns, vintage trading posts, and stunning Painted Desert scenery.

I drove the Arizona portion from Kingman to the New Mexico border over two leisurely days. The Petrified Forest National Park offered incredible views of the Painted Desert, with layers of colored rock stretching to the horizon. The historic towns of Williams and Seligman provided nostalgic stops with classic diners and roadside attractions.

The landscape varies from high desert pine forests near Flagstaff to the cactus-studded Sonoran Desert further west. Meteor Crater, a nearly mile-wide impact crater, offers a fascinating geological stop. I found the combination of natural wonders and cultural history made this drive uniquely engaging.

Key details: Route 66 runs parallel to Interstate 40, with many original segments still drivable. No fees apply to the highway itself, though attractions along the way charge separately. Plan 2-3 days to properly experience the route. Fall and spring offer the most comfortable temperatures. Numerous vintage motels and campgrounds provide authentic overnight experiences.

Eastern and Appalachian Scenic Drives

The Eastern United States offers scenic drives through ancient mountains, historic valleys, and dense forests that transform dramatically with the seasons. These five drives showcase the region’s natural beauty, particularly during fall foliage season.

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia

The Blue Ridge Parkway ranks as the most visited unit of the National Park Service, drawing millions of travelers each year to its 469 miles of mountain scenery. This All-American Road connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, following the Appalachian Mountain crest for most of its length.

I have driven portions of the parkway in every season, but autumn remains unbeatable. The elevation changes create a prolonged fall color season, with peak colors occurring at different times from early October at higher elevations to late October in the valleys. The parkway’s numerous overlooks provide countless opportunities to photograph the kaleidoscope of colors.

The drive reveals the region’s cultural heritage as well as natural beauty. Historic mountain farms, old-growth forests, and traditional music sites dot the route. Milepost 382 marks the Folk Art Center near Asheville, where I spent hours admiring traditional Appalachian crafts. The parkway’s visitor centers offer excellent exhibits explaining the region’s ecology and history.

Key details: The parkway remains free to drive, though some adjacent attractions charge fees. Elevation ranges from 650 to over 6,000 feet, creating varied conditions. Fall foliage season brings heavy traffic, especially on weekends. I recommend visiting midweek when possible. The entire drive takes 10-12 hours without stops, though most travelers spread it over several days. Weather can change quickly at higher elevations.

Skyline Drive, Virginia

Skyline Drive runs 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park, following the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains with 75 overlooks offering views of the Shenandoah Valley to the west and the Virginia Piedmont to the east. This National Scenic Byway provides the quintessential Appalachian driving experience.

I visited during a crisp October morning when fog filled the valleys below the overlooks. As the sun rose and burned off the mist, the views revealed themselves in stages, creating an almost theatrical experience. The drive rewards patient travelers who stop frequently at the overlooks.

Wildlife viewing opportunities abound along Skyline Drive. White-tailed deer appear frequently, especially during dawn and dusk. I spotted several black bears during my visit, including a mother with cubs. The park’s dense black bear population requires visitors to follow food storage guidelines carefully.

Key details: The park charges $30 per vehicle for seven-day access. The drive takes 3-4 hours without stops, though plan for a full day. Fall weekends bring heavy traffic. Spring offers wildflower displays, while winter provides solitude and occasional snow-covered landscapes. Numerous trailheads along the drive provide hiking opportunities ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs.

Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

The Kancamagus Highway, affectionately known as “The Kanc,” traverses 34 miles through the White Mountain National Forest without a single traffic light, billboard, or commercial development. This National Scenic Byway follows the path of the old Swift River Railroad, climbing to nearly 3,000 feet at Kancamagus Pass.

I drove the Kanc during peak fall foliage season, and the experience justified the heavy traffic. The sugar maples, birch, and beech trees create a tunnel of color that changes around every bend. Sabbaday Falls, accessible via a short trail near mile 15, offers a beautiful waterfall hike that makes an excellent break from driving.

The highway provides access to multiple trailheads and recreation areas. I stopped at the Rocky Gorge Scenic Area to explore the Swift River, finding pools and cascades perfect for photography. The lack of commercial development preserves a wilderness feel rare so close to major population centers.

Key details: The highway remains free to drive. Fall foliage season, typically late September through mid-October, brings extremely heavy traffic. I recommend starting early in the morning. The drive takes 1-2 hours without stops. No services exist along the route, so fuel up before starting. Conway and Lincoln at either end provide dining and lodging options.

Cherohala Skyway, Tennessee and North Carolina

The Cherohala Skyway connects Tellico Plains, Tennessee, with Robbinsville, North Carolina, traversing 43 miles of high-elevation terrain through the Cherokee National Forest and Nantahala National Forest. This National Scenic Byway climbs to over 5,400 feet, offering views comparable to the Blue Ridge Parkway with far less traffic.

I discovered the Cherohala Skyway while researching alternatives to the often-crowded Blue Ridge Parkway. The experience exceeded my expectations. The road climbs steadily through diverse forest ecosystems before emerging onto open balds with panoramic mountain views. Several overlooks provide stunning vistas of the Unicoi Mountains and beyond.

The name combines “Cherokee” and “Nantahala,” the two national forests the skyway traverses. I found the Skyway Visitor Center in Tellico Plains helpful for planning my drive, with friendly staff providing current condition reports and recommendations. The center also offers exhibits on the area’s natural and cultural history.

Key details: The skyway remains free and open year-round, though snow closures occur during winter storms. Allow 2-3 hours for the crossing with stops. Fall foliage rivals the more famous parkway routes but with smaller crowds. Motorcyclists particularly enjoy this route for its sweeping curves and scenic views. Services are limited along the route, so plan accordingly.

Acadia All-American Road, Maine

The Acadia All-American Road circles Mount Desert Island, showcasing the dramatic coastal scenery of Acadia National Park. This 27-mile route features rocky shorelines, pristine lakes, and the only fjord on the Atlantic coast of North America.

I visited Acadia in early October when the fall colors complemented the coastal scenery perfectly. The Park Loop Road, the main scenic drive, offers access to Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliff. Each stop revealed a different aspect of Maine’s rugged coast.

Cadillac Mountain deserves special mention as the highest point on the Atlantic coast of the United States. A spur road leads to the summit, where sunrise draws crowds seeking to be among the first in the country to see the morning light. I made the predawn drive and found the experience magical, though cold, even in October.

Key details: The park charges $35 per vehicle for seven-day access. The loop road is one-way for much of its length. Allow 3-4 hours for the full experience. Fall offers the best combination of comfortable weather and fall colors. The nearby town of Bar Harbor provides excellent dining and lodging. I recommend the popovers at Jordan Pond House as a must-try treat.

Midwest, Great Lakes, and Alaska Scenic Drives

These four drives represent some of the most spectacular scenery from the underrepresented regions of the Midwest, Great Lakes, and Alaska. Each offers unique landscapes that deserve inclusion on any list of America’s best scenic drives.

Tunnel of Trees, Michigan

M-119, known as the Tunnel of Trees, stretches 20 miles along the Lake Michigan shoreline between Harbor Springs and Cross Village. This narrow, winding road earns its name from the dense canopy of hardwood trees that arch overhead, creating a natural tunnel effect during summer months.

I drove this route in late October when the canopy had thinned but the remaining leaves glowed in brilliant colors. The road hugs the shoreline bluff, offering occasional glimpses of Lake Michigan through gaps in the trees. The experience feels intimate and slightly adventurous due to the road’s narrow width and winding nature.

Cross Village marks the northern end with Legs Inn, a historic restaurant built by a Polish immigrant using locally gathered stones and driftwood. I stopped for pierogi and a view of Lake Michigan from their outdoor terrace. The combination of the unique drive and this memorable destination makes the journey worthwhile.

Key details: The road remains free and open year-round, though fall color season brings the most traffic. Allow 45-60 minutes for the drive without stops. No passing lanes exist, so slower drivers should use pullouts to let faster traffic pass. Fall colors typically peak in early to mid-October. The nearby town of Petoskey offers additional lodging and dining options.

North Shore Scenic Drive, Minnesota

Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive follows Highway 61 along the northwestern shore of Lake Superior from Duluth to Grand Portage. This 154-mile All-American Road showcases the largest freshwater lake in the world, with dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and forests creating a landscape that rivals ocean coastlines.

I drove the North Shore during a crisp September weekend when the lake sparkled under clear skies. The route passes eight state parks, each offering access to waterfalls that tumble from the inland heights into Lake Superior. Gooseberry Falls, just north of Two Harbors, draws the most visitors, but I found the falls at Tettegouche and Split Rock Lighthouse equally impressive.

The historic Split Rock Lighthouse stands as the most photographed site along the drive. Perched on a 130-foot cliff, the lighthouse has guided ships since 1910. I toured the lighthouse and walked the grounds, learning about the treacherous conditions that made this light necessary. The adjacent state park offers excellent hiking and camping.

Key details: The drive remains free, though state parks charge daily or annual entrance fees. Allow a full day minimum, though two days permits proper exploration. Fall colors peak in late September to early October. Small towns along the route offer lodging and dining. I recommend the smoked fish from local vendors as a quintessential North Shore experience.

Seward Highway, Alaska

The Seward Highway connects Anchorage with Seward, covering 127 miles of some of Alaska’s most accessible and spectacular scenery. This All-American Road passes through Chugach National Forest and Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, offering views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and wildlife.

I drove the Seward Highway in late June when daylight lasted nearly 22 hours, allowing for flexible sightseeing. The Turnagain Arm section south of Anchorage particularly impressed me, with dramatic tides that create bore waves and the occasional beluga whale sighting. Dall sheep frequently appear on the rocky slopes above the highway.

Exit Glacier near Seward provides an accessible opportunity to witness glacial ice up close. A short spur road leads to a parking area with hiking trails approaching the glacier’s terminus. I hiked to the overlook and stood mesmerized by the blue ice and the sounds of occasional calving.

Key details: The highway remains free and generally open year-round, though winter driving requires preparation. Allow 4-5 hours for the drive with stops. Summer offers the best weather and wildlife viewing. The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center provides guaranteed wildlife sightings for those who do not spot animals along the highway. Seward offers excellent seafood restaurants and glacier cruise departures.

Road to Hana, Hawaii

The Road to Hana on Maui’s northeastern coast stretches 64 miles from Kahului to the remote town of Hana, featuring over 600 curves and 50 one-lane bridges. This National Scenic Byway traverses lush rainforest, past waterfalls, and along dramatic coastal cliffs.

I approached the Road to Hana with some trepidation after reading warnings about its difficulty. The reality proved challenging but manageable for any careful driver. The narrow road demands full attention, but the frequent stops at waterfalls, beaches, and scenic viewpoints provide welcome breaks.

The highlights along the route seem endless. Twin Falls offers an early accessible waterfall swim. Wai’anapanapa State Park features a stunning black sand beach surrounded by lava cliffs. I spent half a day at Ohe’o Gulch, where pools and waterfalls cascade toward the ocean. Each stop reveals a different aspect of Maui’s tropical beauty.

Key details: The road remains free and open year-round. Allow a full day for the round trip, though staying overnight in Hana or continuing around the island’s back side creates a more relaxed experience. The back side road past Hana is unpaved and rental car contracts often prohibit this route. Start early to avoid traffic and secure parking at popular stops. Bring mosquito repellent for the rainforest sections.

Dalton Highway, Alaska

The Dalton Highway, also known as the Haul Road, stretches 414 miles from Livengood to Deadhorse near the Arctic Ocean. Built to support the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, this mostly gravel road crosses the Brooks Range and Arctic tundra, offering a true wilderness adventure for well-prepared travelers.

I have not yet driven the Dalton Highway, but it remains at the top of my bucket list. The road passes through some of North America’s most remote country, with only three settlements along the entire route. The landscape transitions from boreal forest to alpine tundra to the coastal plain of the Arctic.

Atigun Pass, the highest highway pass in Alaska at 4,739 feet, crosses the Brooks Range. The pipeline parallels much of the highway, offering a unique human element to the wild landscape. Wildlife sightings include grizzly bears, caribou, wolves, and muskoxen.

Key details: The highway is mostly unpaved and remote. Rental car companies generally prohibit travel on the Dalton. Specialized rental vehicles or guided tours provide the safest options. Services are extremely limited. Coldfoot, at mile 175, offers the only fuel, food, and lodging between Fairbanks and Deadhorse. Plan for self-sufficiency with emergency supplies. Summer, from June through August, provides the only practical window for most travelers.

Essential Tips for Scenic Drive Adventures

After years of exploring America’s scenic drives, I have learned valuable lessons about planning, safety, and making the most of these incredible experiences. These tips will help ensure your scenic drive adventures go smoothly.

The 3-3-3 Rule for Road Trips

The 3-3-3 rule provides a helpful framework for planning scenic drive days. Travel no more than 300 miles per day, arrive by 3:00 PM, and stay a minimum of 3 nights at each destination. This rule prevents exhaustion and allows adequate time to enjoy the drives rather than rushing through them.

I modified this rule slightly for pure scenic drive days, focusing less on the mileage and more on time. A 50-mile scenic drive might take 4-5 hours with frequent stops, while 300 highway miles might only take 5 hours of continuous driving. Plan your day around the experience, not just the distance.

Packing Essentials for Scenic Drives

A well-packed vehicle makes scenic drives more enjoyable and safer. I always carry a cooler with drinks and snacks, as many scenic drives lack services. A basic emergency kit including jumper cables, tire repair supplies, and a first aid kit provides peace of mind on remote routes.

Binoculars and a good camera prove essential for wildlife and landscape photography. I keep a blanket in the car for impromptu picnics at overlooks. Layered clothing helps you adapt to changing temperatures, especially on drives that climb to high elevations. Sunscreen and sunglasses protect against intense mountain and desert sun.

Safety Considerations for Mountain and Coastal Drives

Mountain and coastal drives present unique challenges that require specific preparations. High-elevation drives like Trail Ridge Road and Beartooth Highway can experience sudden weather changes. Check conditions before departure and carry extra water and warm clothing.

Steep grades and switchbacks demand careful driving. Use lower gears on descents to prevent brake overheating. Pull over to let faster traffic pass when safe spots exist. On coastal drives like the Pacific Coast Highway, fog can reduce visibility dramatically. Reduce speed and use low beam headlights when foggy conditions occur.

Seasonal Closures and Best Times to Visit

Many of America’s best scenic drives close seasonally due to snow and dangerous conditions. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Beartooth Highway, and Trail Ridge Road typically operate only from late May or June through October. Always check current road status on official websites before traveling.

Fall foliage season brings spectacular colors to eastern and mountain drives but also heavy crowds. I find late September to early October ideal for the Blue Ridge Parkway and New England drives. Spring offers wildflowers in the Southwest and desert regions. Summer provides the most reliable access to high-elevation drives but also brings afternoon thunderstorms to mountain areas.

Photography Tips for Scenic Drives

Scenic drives offer incredible photography opportunities, but capturing them requires planning. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best natural light. I schedule my drives to reach key viewpoints during these golden hours when possible.

Safety comes first when photographing from roads. Always use designated pullouts rather than stopping on the roadway. Be aware of traffic when crossing roads for better angles. For wildlife photography, use telephoto lenses rather than approaching animals closely. I have found that patience at overlooks often rewards photographers with changing light conditions and unexpected wildlife appearances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

America’s scenic drives offer something that air travel and interstate highways cannot match: the chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with the incredible landscapes that make this country beautiful. From the coastal cliffs of California to the alpine heights of Montana, from the red rock canyons of Utah to the autumn forests of New England, the best scenic drives in America provide experiences that stay with you long after the journey ends.

I hope this guide inspires you to explore at least one of these remarkable routes in 2026. Whether you choose a famous All-American Road like the Blue Ridge Parkway or discover a lesser-known gem like the Cherohala Skyway, you will find that the journey truly becomes the destination. Pack your camera, fill your tank, and hit the road. The most beautiful drives in America are waiting for you.

Have you driven any of these scenic routes? I would love to hear about your favorite drives and any hidden gems you have discovered along the way. Share your experiences and help fellow travelers find their next great American road trip adventure.