There’s something exhilarating about hitting the open road—free to explore at your own pace, with endless opportunities to stop, detour, and take in the scenery. Road trips offer an unrivaled sense of freedom, and I’ve been fortunate enough to take some incredible drives across the United States. From coastlines to mountain passes, here are some of the most spectacular routes I’ve experienced:
1. Going-to-the-Sun Road - Glacier National Park, Montana
One of the most iconic drives in the U.S., Going-to-the-Sun Road takes you through the heart of Glacier National Park. This 63-mile stretch of road winds through the Rocky Mountains, offering awe-inspiring views at nearly every turn. The road crosses the continental divide at Logan Pass, and it’s a must-do for any nature enthusiast. The towering peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes provide jaw-dropping vistas.
Highlights: Lake McDonald, McDonald Falls, Weeping Wall, Hidden Lake, Logan Pass, and Big Bend.
Distance: 63 miles (100 km).
Drive Time: ~2 hours (without stops).
Tip: The road is typically open from late June to mid-September due to snow.
2. Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) - California
The Pacific Coast Highway is arguably one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world. Stretching from the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to Los Angeles, this 470-mile stretch of highway hugs the rugged coastline, offering sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the towering cliffs of Big Sur. It’s an adventurous route that brings you to iconic spots like Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Big Sur, with plenty of opportunities for detours to explore secluded beaches, coastal towns, and historic landmarks.
Highlights: Golden Gate Bridge, Monterey, Big Sur, Hearst Castle, Bixby Bridge, Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Distance: 470 miles (756 km).
Drive Time: ~10 hours (without stops).
Tip: Take your time and stop at the many vista points along the way—you won’t regret it.
3. Acadia National Park Loop Road - Maine
Acadia National Park offers a stunning coastal drive through one of the most picturesque regions of the East Coast. The Loop Road takes you around the park, with beautiful vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, and serene lakes. The road also provides access to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard, and many other incredible spots.
Highlights: Thunder Hole, Cadillac Mountain Overlook, Bar Harbor Land Bridge, Sols Cliff Overlook, Bubble Rock.
Distance: 21 miles (34 km).
Drive Time: ~1.5 hours (without stops).
Tip: Be sure to time your visit with the tide schedule to experience Acadia’s unique tidal changes.
4. Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive - California/Nevada
The Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive offers stunning views of one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the country. This 73-mile loop takes you around the lake, passing through charming towns like South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City. The drive also provides plenty of scenic pull-offs to admire the crystal-clear waters and the surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountains. It’s a perfect route for anyone looking to enjoy nature, stop for a bite, or simply relax by the lake.
Highlights: Emerald Bay State Park, Bonsai Rock, Zephyr Cove Park, Meeks Bay, Cave Rock.
Distance: 73 miles (117 km).
Drive Time: ~2 hours (without stops).
Tip: Summer and fall are ideal seasons to visit for clear skies and vibrant foliage.
5. California’s Route 395 - Eastern Sierra, California
For a lesser-known, yet equally scenic drive, California's Route 395 offers an unforgettable journey through a variety of landscapes—from desert to forest to towering mountain peaks. The drive takes you through historic mining towns, past Mono Lake, and offers views of Mount Whitney and the Sierra Nevada. This route is a treasure trove of natural wonders, including dramatic rock formations, ancient bristlecone pines, and some of the oldest living trees on Earth.
Highlights: Bodie State Historic Park, Mono Lake, Mammoth Lakes, Yosemite National Park, Death Valley National Park, Mount Whitney.
Distance: 362 miles (582.5 km).
Drive Time: ~7.5 hours (without stops).
Tip: Take the detour to Mono Lake for a unique experience of its eerie, otherworldly tufa towers.
6. Blue Ridge Parkway - Virginia/North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway is known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” and for good reason. This 500-mile scenic byway runs through the Appalachian Highlands, connecting the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina. With over 70 overlooks, this drive offers spectacular mountain vistas, winding curves, and plenty of opportunities to explore hiking trails and historic sites along the way.
Highlights: Peaks of Otter, Humpback Rocks, Linville Falls, James River, Great Smoky Mountains.
Distance: 500 miles (805 km).
Drive Time: ~9.5 hours (without stops).
Tip: Stop at one of the overlooks to catch a sunset or sunrise for some of the best views along the route.
7. Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway - South Dakota
A hidden gem, the Badlands Loop in South Dakota offers a drive through a landscape unlike any other. This 63-mile stretch of road takes you through the rugged and colorful rock formations of Badlands National Park. The dramatic scenery, combined with opportunities to spot wildlife like bison and prairie dogs, makes this a must-do for nature lovers and photographers.
Highlights: Panorama Point, Pinnacle Overlook, Yellow Mounds Overlook, Burns Basin Overlook.
Distance: 63 miles (101 km).
Drive Time: ~1.5 hours (without stops).
Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the crowds and enjoy softer light for photos.
8. Lobster Trail (Coastal 1) Drive - Maine
This coastal route takes you along the stunning and rugged shoreline of Maine, offering a perfect blend of quaint New England towns, historic lighthouses, and delicious seafood. You’ll pass through iconic coastal villages like Portland, Kittery, and Bar Harbor, all while getting your fill of lobster shacks and sweeping ocean views.
Highlights: Kittery, Kennebunkport, Boothbay, Portland, Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor.
Distance: 280 miles (450 km).
Drive Time: ~6.5 hours (without stops).
Tip: Make sure to stop at a lobster shack for an authentic Maine lobster roll.
9. Beartooth Highway - Montana/Wyoming
One of the most dramatic drives in the U.S., the Beartooth Highway cuts through the Beartooth Mountains, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows. Along the route, you’ll encounter wildlife, including moose, elk, and even grizzly bears. It’s a great drive for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Highlights: Beartooth Pass, Rock Creek Vista, Crazy Creek Falls, Yellowstone Overlook, Gardner Lake.
Distance: 70 miles (113 km).
Drive Time: ~2 hours (without stops).
Tip: The drive is open from late spring to early fall, depending on snow conditions.
10. John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway - Wyoming/Montana
This scenic byway connects the wonders of Yellowstone National Park with the majesty of the Grand Teton National Park. The drive offers views of sweeping valleys, pristine lakes, and majestic mountains, along with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife. It’s a peaceful and awe-inspiring route that brings you through some of America’s most beautiful landscapes.
Highlights: Jackson Lake, Jenny Lake, Lewis Falls, Grand Teton, Jackson Hole.
Distance: 131 miles (211 km).
Drive Time: ~3.5 hours (without stops).
Tip: Take a detour to visit the charming town of Jackson, Wyoming, famous for its elk antler arches and western feel.
Final Thoughts
These scenic drives offer some of the most incredible landscapes and experiences that the U.S. has to offer. Whether you’re craving coastal views, mountain peaks, or unique geological formations, these routes will take you on an unforgettable journey. Pack your bags, hop in the car, and get ready to explore some of the country’s most stunning drives!
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