Top 10 Most Scenic Roads in the U.S.

If you are looking for some of the most scenic roads in the U.S. to explore, the following are my top-10 favorites. If you have any questions about any of these scenic roads, please leave a comment below. Click the following link if you need a travel planner to help you organize and budget your trip.

The United States has some of the most diverse and beautiful landscapes in the world, making for some truly amazing road trips. From the rugged mountains and vast deserts in the west, to the lush forests and rolling hills in the east, there is something for everyone. The country also has an extensive network of roads and highways, making it easy to explore different regions. Additionally, the United States has a rich history and culture, which can be experienced through the many historic sites, national parks, and landmarks along the way. All these factors combined make the United States an ideal destination for road trips.

1) Scenic Route 12 in Utah: This winding road through southern Utah offers stunning views of red rock formations, including the iconic Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park, as well as Red Canyon and parts of Escalate. This truly is one remarkable road to travel and absolutely one of the most scenic roads in the U.S., especially if you enjoy this type of landscape.

2) The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic byway that runs through the Appalachian Mountains in Virginia and North Carolina, offering stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The parkway is known for its winding roads, scenic overlooks, and beautiful forests. Along the way, visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking in the many national parks and nature preserves that are located on the parkway. It is one of the most popular road trips in the eastern United States and a must-see destination for nature lovers.

3) The Pacific Coast Highway in California: This iconic road, affectionately known as PCH, stretches for more than 650 miles along the California coast, from San Francisco to Los Angeles. It offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the California coastline. Along the way, visitors can stop to enjoy the many beaches, state parks, and coastal towns that are located along PCH. It’s a popular road trip destination for those who want to experience the natural beauty of California, and it’s known for its winding roads and scenic views. PCH is probably the most well known on this list for being one of the most scenic roads in the U.S., and it’s also one of the most popular with both international and domestic visitors.

4) The Million Dollar Highway in Colorado: This 25-mile stretch of road connects the towns of Ouray and Silverton and is known for its steep inclines and hairpin turns, as well as its panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains.

5) The Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana: This narrow, winding road through Glacier National Park offers views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. The 50-mile road is known for its winding roads, steep inclines, and hairpin turns, it crosses the continental divide at Logan Pass and offers some of the most spectacular views of the park. The road is open seasonally, usually from late June to early October, and offers a unique and challenging driving experience.

6) U.S. 1 Overseas Hwy – US 1 Overseas Highway in the Florida Keys is a 113-mile long road that connects the mainland of Florida to Key West, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. The road passes through 42 bridges, including the Seven Mile Bridge, which is considered one of the most scenic drives in the United States. Along the way, visitors can stop to enjoy the crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, and colorful coral reefs of the Florida Keys. The Overseas Highway is also home to many historical sites, nature preserves, and local restaurants, offering a unique and memorable road trip experience.

7) The Talimena Scenic Drive in Oklahoma and Arkansas: This 54-mile stretch of road takes drivers through the Ouachita National Forest, offering views of rolling hills, forests, and the winding mountain streams.

8) The Road to Hana in Maui: This picturesque road on the island of Maui winds through lush rainforests and past cascading waterfalls, offering views of black sand beaches and the bright blue Pacific Ocean. This road offers a winding, 68-mile journey through dense rainforest along the rugged coastline.

9) The Beartooth Highway in Montana: This 68-mile stretch of road takes drivers through the Beartooth Mountains, offering views of alpine meadows, glaciers, and rugged peaks, including the famous Granite Peak, Montana’s highest point and nearly 13,000 feet.

10) The Natchez Trace Parkway in Tennessee, Mississippi and Alabama: This 444-mile road takes drivers through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the southeastern United States, including forests, rolling hills, and small towns, with many opportunities for hiking and picnicking along the way.

It is worth noting that, these are only a few examples of the hundreds of scenic roads in the U.S. and across America. Depending on what type of landscapes or views someone is looking for as they could be more attracted to other places in the country. Be sure to peruse through MikesRoadTrip.com for more road trip suggestions. If you have any recommendations, please leave a comment below for others to consider. So, until next time, we’ll see ya on the road…