There’s something magical about the open road—the way it stretches ahead, inviting you into the unknown, promising breathtaking landscapes, heart-racing twists, and moments that make you feel truly alive. Imagine winding through towering mountains, cruising along endless coastlines, or cutting through wild deserts where time seems to stand still.
Each turn reveals a new wonder, a hidden gem, a scene so stunning it stays with you forever. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, adventure, or just the thrill of the journey, these scenic drives are more than just roads—they’re experiences that will steal your breath and fuel your wanderlust. Buckle up!
1. The High Road to Taos, New Mexico
This drive is a soul-stirring journey through New Mexico’s most stunning landscapes, winding from Santa Fe to Taos. The 56-mile route is packed with dramatic mountain views, ancient adobe villages, and vibrant art communities that make it feel like stepping into another era. One moment you’re driving through rolling desert hills, and the next, you’re climbing into the lush, forested peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
A personal favorite stop? Chimayó, a tiny village famous for its healing dirt (yes, really) at El Santuario de Chimayó. Whether you’re religious or not, the atmosphere is surreal. The sanctuary feels frozen in time, and the surrounding weaving studios and art galleries make for an inspiring detour.
As you approach Taos, the landscape opens up into breathtaking high desert terrain, with the iconic Rio Grande Gorge slicing through the earth like a canyon out of a Western movie. If you love quirky, artsy towns, Taos is the perfect ending—loaded with Southwest-style eateries, historic landmarks, and an easygoing vibe.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: September – October (Fall foliage is unbeatable!)
- Must-See Stops: Chimayó, Truchas, Río Grande Gorge Bridge
- Road Type: Paved but winding, some steep sections
- Perfect for: Art lovers, history buffs, and those craving a slow, scenic journey
2. Highway 12, Utah (Scenic Byway 12)
Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 is pure, jaw-dropping wilderness—it carves its way through two national parks, three state parks, and some of the most mind-blowing rock formations in the country. The 123-mile route stretches from Panguitch to Torrey, offering a mix of fiery red canyons, towering cliffs, and sweeping desert views that shift colors with the light.
One of the highlights? The section is known as the “Hogsback”—a narrow, elevated ridge with sheer drop-offs on both sides. It feels like you’re driving on the edge of the world, with panoramic views stretching for miles. If you’re afraid of heights, buckle up!
Further down the road, Escalante’s slot canyons invite adventurous souls to explore their narrow, winding corridors. Take a short detour to Lower Calf Creek Falls, an oasis-like waterfall in the middle of the desert. By the time you reach Capitol Reef National Park, the landscape shifts yet again, revealing towering sandstone domes and ancient petroglyphs.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: April – June, September – October (Avoid extreme summer heat)
- Must-See Stops: Bryce Canyon NP, Grand Staircase-Escalante, Capitol Reef NP
- Road Type: Paved, with steep and narrow sections
- Perfect for: Outdoor adventurers, hikers, photographers
3. Mount Evans Scenic Byway, Colorado
If you’ve ever dreamed of driving above the clouds, this is the road for you. The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is the highest paved road in North America, climbing to a staggering 14,130 feet at its summit. Starting near Idaho Springs, the drive winds through alpine meadows, and dense forests, and finally into the rugged tundra, where mountain goats and bighorn sheep roam freely.
At higher elevations, the landscape is nothing short of surreal. The trees disappear, replaced by barren rock formations and deep blue glacial lakes. Keep your eyes peeled for Echo Lake, a perfect spot for a quick picnic or a moment of quiet reflection before ascending further.
The final stretch of the drive? A dizzying series of switchbacks leading to the summit. Once you reach the top, the views stretch across the Rocky Mountains, Denver’s skyline, and beyond. But beware—altitude sickness is real up here! Bring extra water and take it slow if you’re not used to high elevations.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: June – September (Road closed in winter due to snow)
- Must-See Stops: Echo Lake, Summit Lake, Mount Evans summit
- Road Type: Paved, steep, and winding with no guardrails at higher elevations
- Perfect for: Thrill-seekers, mountain lovers, wildlife enthusiasts
4. Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway, Arkansas
The Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway might not be as famous as some of the other drives. Still, it’s one of the most underrated road trips in the U.S. This 35-mile stretch of Highway 21 cuts through the heart of the Ozark National Forest, offering endless rolling hills, thick forests, and some of the best fall foliage in the South.
There’s something magical about driving here in autumn—the trees explode in shades of red, orange, and gold, and the crisp air makes it the perfect season for a road trip. But even in the warmer months, the drive is stunning, with hidden waterfalls, wildflower meadows, and some of the best hiking trails in Arkansas.
For a little adventure, stop at Hawksbill Crag (Whitaker Point)—one of the most photographed spots in the state. It’s a short hike but rewards you with an epic cliffside view overlooking the valley below. If you want to keep the road trip going, the byway connects to other scenic routes, leading deeper into the Ozarks.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: October – November (Fall colors are peak)
- Must-See Stops: Hawksbill Crag, Buffalo National River, Boxley Valley
- Road Type: Paved, winding with some steep sections
- Perfect for: Fall road trips, nature lovers, photographers
5. White Rim Road, Utah
Now, this is a road trip for true adventurers. The White Rim Road is a 100-mile off-road journey through Canyonlands National Park, offering some of the most breathtaking and rugged desert landscapes in the U.S. Unlike a typical scenic byway, this drive requires a 4WD vehicle and a sense of adventure.
The road hugs the edge of towering red rock cliffs, winding through deep canyons, surreal rock formations, and wide-open desert plateaus. There’s a sense of complete solitude out here—no cell service, no towns, just you and the vast Utah wilderness.
Camping along the route is an unforgettable experience. At night, the sky lights up with millions of stars, making it a perfect spot for stargazing. The sunrise over the canyons? Breathtaking. Just make sure you’re prepared—this isn’t a drive you can casually attempt.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: March-May, September – October (Avoid extreme heat in summer)
- Must-See Stops: Shafer Trail, Green River Overlook, Island in the Sky
- Road Type: Unpaved, 4WD only, rugged terrain
- Perfect for: Off-road enthusiasts, campers, desert explorers
6. San Juan Skyway, Colorado
If you’re looking for a drive that feels like stepping into a postcard, the San Juan Skyway is it. This 236-mile loop in southwestern Colorado takes you through majestic mountain peaks, charming historic towns, and some of the most dramatic alpine scenery in the U.S.
The route winds through the San Juan Mountains, often called the “Switzerland of America,” and passes through the old mining towns of Ouray, Silverton, and Telluride. One of the most thrilling sections? The Million Dollar Highway, a stretch with steep drop-offs, hairpin turns, and no guardrails—but the jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks and deep gorges make it worth the white-knuckle drive.
Fall is arguably the best time to visit, when the aspen trees explode into brilliant golds and oranges, creating a contrast against the rugged mountains. But whether you’re driving through lush summer meadows, colorful autumn foliage, or snow-dusted peaks in spring, this drive delivers unforgettable scenery year-round.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: September – October (Fall colors), June – August (Summer wildflowers)
- Must-See Stops: Ouray (aka “Little Switzerland”), Telluride, Red Mountain Pass
- Road Type: Paved, steep, and winding
- Perfect for: Mountain lovers, fall foliage seekers, adventure drivers
7. Lolo Pass, Idaho & Montana
This legendary route through the Bitterroot Mountains follows the path of Lewis and Clark, making it a dream drive for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Stretching over 100 miles, Lolo Pass offers a mix of dense pine forests, rushing rivers, and rugged mountain views as it climbs to an elevation of 5,233 feet.
One of the best things about this drive? The sense of total seclusion. It’s just you, the winding road, and the occasional eagle soaring overhead. The Lochsa River runs parallel to the highway for much of the drive, offering plenty of scenic pull-offs where you can dip your feet in the icy water or watch for wildlife.
Don’t rush through this one—take time to stop at the Lolo Pass Visitor Center, where you can learn about the hardships of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. If you’re up for an extra adventure, the area is dotted with natural hot springs, perfect for a soak after a long drive.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: June – September (Pleasant temperatures, clear roads)
- Must-See Stops: Lolo Pass Visitor Center, Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, Lochsa River pullouts
- Road Type: Paved, gentle curves with some mountain sections
- Perfect for: History lovers, solitude seekers, nature photographers
8. Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway, Colorado
Ever wanted to feel like you’re driving through a Wild West movie? The Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway takes you through the heart of Colorado’s old mining country, where ghost towns, towering cliffs, and deep canyons tell stories of the gold rush days.
The route covers 131 miles, looping through Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, where ancient fossils are embedded in stone, and the jaw-dropping Shelf Road, a narrow dirt road clinging to the cliffs. If you’re afraid of heights, this one might make your palms sweat—but the views of the rugged canyons and the distant Rockies are worth it.
You’ll also pass through Cripple Creek, once one of the richest gold-mining towns in the U.S. Today, it’s a quirky mix of casinos, old-time saloons, and historic buildings. A must-stop for history lovers, and if you’re up for a little adventure, the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine tour takes you 1,000 feet underground into a real gold mine.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: May – October (Best weather for mountain roads)
- Must-See Stops: Cripple Creek, Shelf Road, Florissant Fossil Beds
- Road Type: Mix of paved and dirt roads, some narrow cliffside sections
- Perfect for: History buffs, adventure drivers, Old West enthusiasts
9. Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway, South Dakota
The Badlands are one of those places that feel otherworldly, like something straight out of a sci-fi movie. This 39-mile loop through Badlands National Park winds past towering rock spires, colorful layered cliffs, and vast prairies where bison and bighorn sheep roam freely.
What is the best way to experience the drive? Slow down. Every twist and turn reveals a new dramatic viewpoint, and the light constantly shifts, changing the landscape’s colors throughout the day. Sunrise and sunset are especially stunning, as the rocks take on fiery hues of orange, pink, and red.
For a little extra adventure, stop at one of the many hiking trails along the route. The Notch Trail is a must—just a 1.5-mile trek but featuring a ladder climb and an epic canyon overlook. Just be prepared for strong winds—there’s a reason this landscape looks so rugged!
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: May – June, September – October (Avoid summer heat)
- Must-See Stops: Big Badlands Overlook, Notch Trail, Pinnacles Overlook
- Road Type: Paved, easy driving but some sharp turns
- Perfect for: Nature lovers, photographers, wildlife watchers
10. Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive, Nevada & California
A lake so blue it looks photoshopped and mountains towering in the background—yep, that’s Lake Tahoe. This 72-mile scenic loop circles one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the world, offering a mix of lake views, charming mountain towns, and incredible outdoor activities.
One of the best sections? The drive along Emerald Bay, where the road hugs the cliffs and gives you jaw-dropping views of the deep blue water below. If you can, stop at Emerald Bay State Park and take the short hike down to Vikingsholm, a Scandinavian-style castle sitting right on the water’s edge.
Whether you’re into beaches, hiking, or just soaking in the scenery, this drive has something for everyone. In summer, the lake is perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding, while winter turns the surrounding mountains into a snowy wonderland for skiing and snowboarding.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: June – September (Summer water activities), December – March (Winter sports)
- Must-See Stops: Emerald Bay, Sand Harbor, Incline Village
- Road Type: Paved, some curvy mountain sections
- Perfect for: Lake lovers, outdoor adventurers, all-season travelers
11. Cherohala Skyway, Tennessee & North Carolina
If you love the idea of soaring through the mountains on a winding, open road with endless panoramic views, then Cherohala Skyway is for you. This 43-mile stretch connects Tellico Plains, Tennessee, to Robbinsville, North Carolina, cutting through the remote and breathtaking Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests—hence the name “Cherohala.”
What makes this drive so special? It’s all about the altitude. You’ll start at around 900 feet and climb to over 5,400 feet, where the rolling forested hills seem to go on forever. Fall is a spectacle here, as the skyway transforms into a glowing masterpiece of red, orange, and yellow.
But don’t just drive—stop, explore, and breathe it all in. There are plenty of pull-offs for short hikes to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. Pack a picnic, take your time, and let the mountains work their magic.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: October (Fall colors are incredible), April – June (Spring wildflowers)
- Must-See Stops: Santeetlah Overlook, Huckleberry Knob, Bald River Falls
- Road Type: Paved, smooth, lots of elevation changes
- Perfect for: Nature lovers, peaceful road trippers, photographers
12. Flint Hills Scenic Byway, Kansas
Kansas might not be the first place that comes to mind for a scenic drive, but the Flint Hills Scenic Byway is here to prove you wrong. This 47-mile route on Highway 177 cuts through some of the last remaining tallgrass prairies in the world, offering a landscape that’s both simple and stunning.
The rolling hills, endless blue sky, and golden grasses swaying in the wind create a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere. Stop at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, where you can hike among bison herds and experience what the Great Plains looked like before modern development.
At sunset, this place turns into pure magic. The sky explodes into deep purples and fiery oranges, reflecting off the grasslands in a way that feels straight out of a painting.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: Late spring (wildflowers), fall (cooler temperatures, golden grass)
- Must-See Stops: Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Council Grove, Cottonwood Falls
- Road Type: Paved, gentle rolling hills
- Perfect for: Serenity seekers, history lovers, photographers
13. Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway, Alabama
The Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway is one of Alabama’s best-kept secrets. Stretching 80 miles through the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, this route is a showcase of rolling farmland, rugged ridges, and charming small towns.
One of the highlights? Cheaha State Park is home to Alabama’s highest peak (2,407 feet). The views from Bald Rock Overlook stretch for miles, offering a breathtaking perspective on the southeastern landscape.
Unlike some of the more popular scenic drives, this one feels quiet, unspoiled, and personal—perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and find a little hidden beauty.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: March-May (Spring blooms), October – November (Fall foliage)
- Must-See Stops: Cheaha State Park, Fort Payne, Little River Canyon National Preserve
- Road Type: Paved, winding mountain sections
- Perfect for: Tranquil road trips, mountain lovers, weekend getaways
14. Teton Park Road, Wyoming
If you’ve ever dreamed of driving with the Grand Tetons towering beside you, this road is a dream come true. The Teton Park Road, stretching 42 miles through Grand Teton National Park, delivers some of the most jaw-dropping mountain scenery in America.
The Tetons are fierce, rugged, and unbelievably photogenic. You’ll drive past crystal-clear lakes, winding rivers, and lush meadows where elk, moose, and even bears roam freely. Sunrise or sunset here? Surreal.
Be sure to stop at Schwabacher Landing, Mormon Row, and Jenny Lake—each one offers a new, equally breathtaking perspective of the Tetons.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: June – September (Best weather, full road access)
- Must-See Stops: Jenny Lake, Mormon Row, Snake River Overlook
- Road Type: Paved, easy driving with some mountain curves
- Perfect for: National park lovers, wildlife watchers, landscape photographers
15. Rattlesnake Grade, Oregon & Washington
Ready for a drive that gets your adrenaline pumping? The Rattlesnake Grade is a lesser-known but thrilling route, twisting through hairpin turns and steep drops as it crosses from Washington into Oregon.
The name isn’t just for fun—this road snakes its way down and up steep canyon walls, offering unbelievable views of the Grande Ronde River far below. It’s the kind of drive that demands your full attention but rewards you with pure, untouched wilderness.
This isn’t a drive for the faint of heart, but if you love dramatic landscapes and a little adventure, it’s one for the books.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: May – October (Avoid winter; steep roads can be dangerous)
- Must-See Stops: Joseph Canyon Viewpoint, Grande Ronde River Overlook
- Road Type: Paved, sharp curves, steep climbs
- Perfect for: Thrill-seekers, wilderness lovers, motorcycle riders
16. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina & Virginia
Nicknamed “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway is an iconic 469-mile journey that winds through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. What makes this drive so special? The scenery changes constantly, from misty mountaintops and deep valleys to rolling pastures and vibrant forests.
One of the best things about the Blue Ridge Parkway is the sheer number of overlooks—you could pull over every few miles and still not get tired of the views. In autumn, the entire route becomes a fiery sea of reds, oranges, and gold, making it one of the best fall drives in the world. But spring is just as magical, when wildflowers bloom in every shade imaginable, and waterfalls flow at full force.
The pace here is slow and peaceful—there are no billboards, no commercial trucks, just winding roads designed for the joy of driving. If you want to take a break from the car, countless hiking trails lead to hidden waterfalls, rocky peaks, and peaceful picnic spots. Whether you’re in it for the views, the wildlife, or just the fresh mountain air, this drive never disappoints.
Quick Facts:
- Perfect for: Leaf-peepers, nature lovers, hikers, and those who love a relaxing, scenic drive
- Best Months to Visit: September – October (Fall colors), April – June (Wildflowers)
- Must-See Stops: Linn Cove Viaduct, Mabry Mill, Craggy Gardens, Peaks of Otter
- Road Type: Paved, slow-speed limits, winding but well-maintained
17. North Shore Scenic Drive, Minnesota
The North Shore Scenic Drive along Lake Superior’s coastline is one of the most underrated scenic routes in the Midwest. The road stretches 154 miles from Duluth to Grand Portage, offering endless views of rocky shorelines, cascading waterfalls, and dense northern forests.
One of the best things about this drive? It changes with the seasons. Summer brings wildflowers and blue waters, fall explodes into fiery colors, and winter turns the landscape into a sparkling wonderland of ice and snow.
For a unique stop, check out Split Rock Lighthouse, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking Lake Superior.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: September – October (Fall foliage), June – August (Summer lakeside activities)
- Must-See Stops: Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Lighthouse, Grand Marais
- Road Type: Paved, gentle curves, stunning lake views
- Perfect for: Year-round travelers, Great Lakes lovers, nature enthusiasts
18. Hana Highway, Hawaii
We couldn’t end this list without one of the most famous scenic drives in the world. The Hana Highway on Maui is an unforgettable rainforest adventure, featuring 620 curves, 59 bridges, and countless waterfalls.
The road winds along towering cliffs, lush jungles, and black sand beaches, with the smell of tropical flowers in the air. It’s a drive best taken slowly, with plenty of stops for fresh banana bread, coconut stands, and quick dips in jungle pools.
Once you reach Hana, the adventure isn’t over—keep going to Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) and Waimoku Falls, where a short hike leads you to an astonishing 400-foot waterfall.
Quick Facts:
- Best Months to Visit: April – October (Drier season, safer roads)
- Must-See Stops: Twin Falls, Wailua Overlook, Black Sand Beach
- Road Type: Paved, extremely winding, some narrow bridges
- Perfect for: Tropical explorers, beach lovers, slow travelers
