Discover the Best of America on These 20 Scenic Byways
America’s scenic byways offer some of the most breathtaking views, winding through towering mountains, rugged coastlines, and vibrant forests.
Whether you’re a road trip enthusiast or simply seeking to explore the natural beauty of the U.S., these scenic byways offer an unforgettable journey.
From historic routes to panoramic landscapes, these 20 scenic byways showcase the best that the country has to offer.
1. Pacific Coast Highway – California
Stretching along California’s coast, the Pacific Coast Highway offers spectacular ocean views and rugged cliffs.
This iconic route takes you through Big Sur, Malibu, and the scenic beaches of Southern California.
It’s a must-drive for those who love breathtaking coastal scenery.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway – Virginia to North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway is known for its winding roads and stunning mountain vistas.
Running from Virginia to North Carolina, this 469-mile route showcases the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
Hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers will love this scenic drive.
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3. Great River Road – Minnesota to Louisiana
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River for over 2,000 miles, providing scenic views of the river’s diverse landscapes.
From quaint river towns to lush wetlands, this byway offers a glimpse into the heart of America’s natural beauty.
It’s perfect for those seeking history and scenic tranquility.
4. Beartooth Highway – Wyoming to Montana
Beartooth Highway offers a high-altitude drive through the rugged Beartooth Mountains.
This scenic route provides jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and vast meadows.
It’s an unforgettable journey for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
5. Kancamagus Highway – New Hampshire
The Kancamagus Highway is a 34-mile scenic drive through the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
In the fall, this route is famous for its vibrant foliage, making it one of the best places to experience New England’s autumn colors.
It’s a short but stunning drive that offers plenty of hiking opportunities.
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6. Historic Route 66 – Illinois to California
Route 66, also known as the “Main Street of America,” stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, California.
This historic byway takes travelers through small towns, deserts, and classic roadside attractions.
It’s a nostalgic journey that captures the spirit of America’s early road trips.
7. Skyline Drive – Virginia
Skyline Drive runs through Shenandoah National Park, offering scenic overlooks and panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
This 105-mile byway is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
It’s a peaceful drive filled with natural beauty.
8. Natchez Trace Parkway – Mississippi to Tennessee
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a historic 444-mile byway that winds through the Deep South.
This route takes you through lush forests, rolling hills, and sites rich in Native American history.
It’s perfect for those seeking a scenic drive with historical significance.
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9. The Loneliest Road (U.S. Route 50) – Nevada
U.S. Route 50, known as “The Loneliest Road,” offers a remote and stunning drive through Nevada’s deserts.
This route provides wide-open views, towering mountains, and plenty of solitude.
It’s ideal for those seeking adventure in one of the most desolate yet beautiful regions of the U.S.
10. Million Dollar Highway – Colorado
The Million Dollar Highway offers a thrilling drive through Colorado’s San Juan Mountains.
This route is known for its sharp turns, steep cliffs, and incredible views of alpine valleys and towering peaks.
It’s a must for adrenaline junkies and those who appreciate dramatic landscapes.
11. Route 12 – Utah
Route 12, also known as the Scenic Byway 12, takes drivers through the red rock landscapes of southern Utah.
This route passes through Bryce Canyon National Park and Capitol Reef National Park, offering breathtaking views of canyons, cliffs, and desert landscapes.
It’s a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
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12. Going-to-the-Sun Road – Montana
Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park offers one of the most stunning drives in the U.S.
This 50-mile route takes you through alpine forests, over mountain passes, and along glacial lakes.
The dramatic scenery and wildlife sightings make it an unforgettable adventure.
13. Hana Highway – Hawaii
Hana Highway is a tropical paradise, winding along the coast of Maui and offering views of lush rainforests, waterfalls, and ocean cliffs.
This route is a favorite for those seeking a scenic drive through Hawaii’s natural beauty.
It’s an adventurous journey that offers numerous stops for exploring.
14. Lake Superior Circle Tour – Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ontario
The Lake Superior Circle Tour offers a 1,300-mile scenic drive around the largest freshwater lake in the world.
This route takes travelers through dense forests, rugged cliffs, and picturesque small towns.
It’s a perfect byway for those who love lakeside views and peaceful landscapes.
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15. Seward Highway – Alaska
Seward Highway offers a 127-mile scenic drive from Anchorage to Seward, Alaska.
This byway provides breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and coastal fjords.
It’s a must-drive for adventure lovers looking to explore Alaska’s wild and untamed beauty.
16. Talimena Scenic Drive – Arkansas and Oklahoma
Talimena Scenic Drive offers a winding route through the Ouachita Mountains, with stunning views of forested hills and valleys.
This byway is particularly beautiful in the fall when the foliage bursts into vibrant colors.
It’s a peaceful and scenic drive perfect for a quiet getaway.
17. Cascade Loop – Washington
The Cascade Loop is a 440-mile drive that takes you through the stunning Cascade Mountains, offering views of alpine lakes, forests, and small towns.
This route showcases the best of Washington’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged mountains to the scenic Puget Sound.
It’s a must-drive for those who love outdoor adventure and scenic beauty.
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18. Great Allegheny Passage – Pennsylvania and Maryland
The Great Allegheny Passage is a 150-mile route that offers scenic views of rivers, valleys, and historic towns.
This route follows old railroad tracks, providing a peaceful and picturesque drive through the Appalachian Mountains.
It’s perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
19. Big Sur Coast Highway – California
The Big Sur Coast Highway offers a dramatic drive along California’s rugged coastline.
This route takes travelers through towering cliffs, crashing waves, and scenic coastal views.
It’s one of the most iconic byways in the U.S. and perfect for those seeking coastal beauty.
20. Red Rock Scenic Byway – Arizona
The Red Rock Scenic Byway offers a 7.5-mile drive through the stunning red rock formations of Sedona, Arizona.
This short but scenic route provides breathtaking views of the desert landscape and is perfect for hiking, photography, and outdoor exploration.
It’s a must-see for those visiting the American Southwest.
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