Top 10 Scenic Drives in USA
Hi, I’m Emily and I love road trips! There’s something about hitting the open road and exploring new places that just fills me with joy. Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to explore some of the most beautiful drives in America. So, without further ado, here are my top 10 scenic drives in the USA.
The Pacific Coast Highway, California
This iconic drive stretches for over 600 miles along the California coastline and offers stunning ocean views, rocky cliffs, and charming seaside towns. My favorite part of the drive is the stretch between Monterey and Big Sur, where you can see the Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
This drive winds through the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and offers breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains. In the fall, the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, making it a popular destination for leaf-peeping. I recommend stopping at Mabry Mill, which is a popular spot for photos.
The Great River Road, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana
This drive follows the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles and offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the region. Along the way, you can see historic sites, charming river towns, and beautiful natural scenery. I recommend stopping in Hannibal, Missouri, the birthplace of Mark Twain.
The Overseas Highway, Florida
This drive takes you over 100 miles across the Florida Keys and offers stunning ocean views, bridges, and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. I recommend stopping at Bahia Honda State Park, which has beautiful beaches and clear water.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
This drive takes you through Glacier National Park and offers stunning views of the mountains, lakes, and valleys. The road is only open in the summer, and it’s important to note that it can be narrow and winding in some spots. I recommend stopping at Logan Pass, which has beautiful views and plenty of hiking trails.
The Million Dollar Highway, Colorado
This drive takes you through the San Juan Mountains and offers stunning views of the peaks, valleys, and canyons. The road is narrow and winding in some spots, so it’s not for the faint of heart. I recommend stopping at the town of Ouray, which is known as the Switzerland of America.
The Hana Highway, Hawaii
This drive takes you through the lush forests and waterfalls of Maui and offers stunning ocean views. The road is narrow and winding in some spots, but the views are worth it. I recommend stopping at the Seven Sacred Pools, which are a series of waterfalls and pools that are perfect for swimming.
The Black Hills, South Dakota
This drive takes you through the beautiful Black Hills and offers stunning views of the mountains, forests, and prairies. Along the way, you can see Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and the charming town of Deadwood. I recommend stopping at Custer State Park, which has plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
The Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee
This drive follows the historic Natchez Trace and offers stunning views of the countryside, forests, and rivers. Along the way, you can see historic sites, charming towns, and beautiful natural scenery. I recommend stopping at the Emerald Mound, which is a prehistoric Native American site.
The Scenic Byway 12, Utah
This drive takes you through the stunning red rock canyons and forests of Utah and offers stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and rock formations. Along the way, you can see Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, and the charming town of Boulder. I recommend stopping at the Anasazi State Park Museum, which has exhibits on the prehistoric Anasazi culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to drive these scenic routes?
The best time of year to drive these scenic routes depends on the location. For example, the Pacific Coast Highway is best driven in the summer, while the Blue Ridge Parkway is best driven in the fall. It’s important to research the specific route you’re interested in and plan accordingly.
Are these routes suitable for RVs or large vehicles?
Some of these routes may be more challenging for RVs or large vehicles, so it’s important to do your research and plan accordingly. For example, the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park may not be suitable for large vehicles.
Are there any fees associated with driving these routes?
Some of these routes may have entrance fees for national parks or other attractions. It’s important to research the specific route you’re interested in and plan accordingly.
Are there any specific safety precautions I should take when driving these routes?
It’s important to follow all traffic laws and be aware of your surroundings when driving these routes. Some of the routes may be narrow or winding in some spots, so it’s important to drive carefully and be prepared for changing road conditions.
Can I drive these routes in one day?
It’s possible to drive some of these routes in one day, but it’s important to remember that these are scenic drives and should be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. It’s best to plan for multiple days and take your time exploring the sights and attractions along the way.
What should I bring with me on these drives?
It’s important to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, as well as a map or GPS device. It’s also a good idea to bring a camera to capture the stunning views along the way.