9 Outstanding Scenic Drives

Story by Patricia Corrigan
Patricia is a journalist, photographer and book author based in San Francisco.
The lure of the open road leads drivers to beautiful spots across America.
If you’re ready for a weekend getaway or a longer respite from your routine, a road trip on one of America’s classic scenic drives makes for a perfect change of pace. Whether you make the trip with family and friends, head out on your own or travel with your sweetheart, we recommend these nine road-tested journeys through some amazing landscapes.
The Road to Hana, Hawaii
What’s not to love about a road trip in Hawaii? Our glorious 50th state features many coastal drives, but the one that gets you bragging rights is the 42-mile-long winding road from Lahaina to Hana, on Maui. Try it with the top down for the best views of beautiful beaches, rocky cliffs, rushing waterfalls and mountain forests, and plenty of interesting places to pause along the way.
Utah’s Scenic Byway 12
Charming small towns stitch together this breathtaking 124-mile drive that passes through or nearby two national parks, three state parks, a national recreation area, a national monument and a national forest. No wonder the U.S. Department of Transportation has named it an All-American Road, one of the best scenic drives in America.
The San Juan Skyway in Colorado
Mountain mamas — and papas — are drawn to drive this 236-mile route through southwest Colorado. The San Juans are the most rugged mountains in the state, so rent an SUV and head out on this All-American Road that climbs over four mountain passes, winds through two national forests and passes through the archeological center of the U.S.
The Willow City Loop in Texas
Rustic barns, working ranches and abandoned railroad trestles are scattered across the Texas Hill Country’s bucolic landscape, and in spring, the 13-mile Willow City Loop is the go-to drive for fans of wildflowers. We’re talking bluebonnets, bluebonnets and more bluebonnets — the state flower — but also Indian paintbrushes, prairie verbena and pink evening primroses.
The Natchez Trace Parkway through the South
This famous parkway prohibits commercial traffic, billboards, gas stations and fast-food restaurants, and the speed limit is just 50 mph — now that’s a scenic route! As you drive the 444 miles from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee, a leisurely pace allows time to explore waterfalls, monuments and Native American mounds and to stop for picnics in the countryside. An easy side trip takes you to Tupelo, Elvis Presley’s birthplace.
Cades Cove in Tennessee
Black bears, residents of the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park, cause most of the traffic jams on this mellow 11-mile driving loop that appeals to history buffs and travelers looking for a peaceful vacation destination. A valley surrounded by mountains, Cades Cove features rolling meadows punctuated with log homes, historic churches and mills built in the early 1800s by farmers who immigrated from Europe.
Florida’s Overseas Highway
A string of tropical islands, the Florida Keys extend 120 miles from Miami to Key West, the southernmost city in the continental U. S. As you drive along this unique coastal highway, pick a Key — any Key — and stop to explore the historic towns, indulge in wildlife watching and chill out as you view amazing sunsets with the locals.
Virginia’s Crooked Road
If bluegrass is music to your ears, find your way from one jam session to another on this 330-mile journey through southwest Virginia that puts you in the birthplace of the genre. Plenty of gifted musicians play traditional tunes year-round in nine major venues and over 60 affiliated venues along the drive, which follows U.S. Highway 58 and assorted two-lane byways dotted with weathered barns and green pastures.
California’s Redwood Coast
Celebrated in song and story, redwood forests are a peak vacation experience in more ways than one. These towering trees routinely reach 350 feet tall and some are more than 2,000 years old. To make the most of this scenic route, cross the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and drive 4.5 hours north on Highway 101 to Eureka, in Humboldt County. Along the way, you’ll pass wineries, historic coastal towns and majestic redwood trees growing on both sides of the road.
Searching for Surf and Self Along the West Coast
Riding waves renews joy and restores confidence after a bad mountain fall.
The Great River Road: Missouri to Louisiana
A drive south along the Mississippi River leads to memorable music.
The Great River Road: Minnesota to Missouri
This iconic drive along the Mississippi River doesn’t miss a beat.
The Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway Reveals Nebraska’s Beauty
The long way home makes for a great road trip.
Washington’s North Cascades National Park - Washington and Oregon
Outdoor enthusiasts revel in this remote park’s opportunities for adventure.
A Memorable Road Trip on Colorado’s Side Roads
The drive from Boulder to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park reaps many rewards.
Exploring Isle Royale National Park, “The Good Place”
Minnesota’s North Shore All-American Scenic Drive leads to a prime wilderness experience.
Jackson, Wyoming, Makes a Great Base for Scenic Drives
Grand Teton National Park lies on the outskirts of this popular vacation town.
Litchfield Hills Loop Drive Offers Unexpected Pleasures
The northwest Connecticut road trip showcases scenery and shopping.
9 Outstanding Scenic Drives
The lure of the open road leads drivers to beautiful spots across America.
Cruising Washington’s Scenic Cascade Loop
The 440-mile drive pays homage to the state’s diverse landscape.
Road Trip from New Orleans to Memphis
From po’boys and jazz to barbecue and blues, take a food-driven road trip between America’s Southern sister cities.
Mountains of Music Homecoming Celebrates Virginia’s Rich Heritage
Communities on the Crooked Road welcome visitors to the nine-day summer festival.
Summer Road Trip on the Snowy Range Scenic Byway
The route through the Medicine Bow Mountains features fly-fishing, camping and more.
A Two-Day Driving Tour of the San Juan Skyway
Soak in the hot springs, ride the narrow-gauge railroad or stay in a cozy lodge during this road trip.
Adventures on Maine’s Pequawket Trail Scenic Byway
Hike, swim or just enjoy the views on this rural road trip.
The Beautiful Beaches of the Florida Panhandle
Relax, dine and play in the area’s charming coastal towns.
Explore the Edisto Island National Scenic Byway
Old-world charm and exquisite landscape merge for a South Carolina drive like no other.
Cades Cove Drive is a Trip Back in Time
Visit log homes, churches and other buildings from the early 1800s on a relaxing 11-mile road trip.
Nostalgic Route 66 Road Trip: Albuquerque to St. Louis
Choosing the “old road” opens up a world of appealing characters and beauty along the “Main Street of America.”
Cruising the Pacific Coast Highway - Washington and Oregon
Traveler’s long-awaited road trip starts in Seattle and winds through the Northwest.
Cruising the Pacific Coast Highway - California
Road trip continues through the northern California redwoods and on to sunny SoCal beaches.
Nostalgic Route 66 Road Trip: St. Louis to Chicago
A weekend road trip through Illinois farmland leads to classic diners, drive-ins and big city splendor.
Prince Edward Island Inspires
The classic novel "Anne of Green Gables" is set here, but that's only part of the island's allure.
Solo Traveler Drives Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada
Taking three days to complete this three-hour drive isn’t uncommon; there’s a lot to see.
Texas Bluebonnets in Bloom
Willow City Loop ranks high as a bucket-list drive for wildflower lovers.
Algonquin Park Scenic Drive
Ontario’s largest provincial park influenced some of Canada’s most iconic art.
Nostalgic Route 66 Road Trip: Santa Monica to Albuquerque
On the “Mother Road,” you’ll find welcoming smiles and the guardian angel of the trail.
Cabot Trail Drive is a Quest for the Best
Rich culture, great seafood and lively music distinguish this Nova Scotia journey from all others.
A Mother-Daughter Road Trip on the Pacific Marine Circle Route
A world traveler explores southern Vancouver Island and looks for a place to call home.
Road Trip Along Mississippi’s Blues Trail
Music lovers and history buffs love these foot-stompin’ stops in the Delta.
Utah's Scenic Byway 12 is a Masterpiece
The All-American road traverses slickrock and features a petrified forest, a beautiful waterfall and gourmet dining.
On the Road — and the Beaches — in Maui with Friends
The Hawaiian island’s tropical embrace offers a memorable vacation in paradise.
Rediscovering Roots in South Dakota’s Black Hills
A road trip reminds one traveler how his home shaped him forever.
San Francisco: A Gateway to Yosemite National Park
An easy road trip takes you from a world-class city to a top national park.
Explore California's Redwood Coast
This scenic region runs north from San Francisco through Redwoods National and State Parks along Highway 101.
Old Friends Drive the Sea to Sky Highway
A workaholic who dreads weekends and a wanderer constantly in motion explore Canada’s Sea to Sky Highway.

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