America is known for its gorgeous drives that not only get you to your destination but also help you see some of the most beautiful scenery while enjoying the trip. You can travel highways that span more than a hundred miles over the open sea or take an up-close and personal look at some of the most majestic mountains in the country.
Whether you are out west, down south, or on the east coast there is a stretch of highway that will inspire you to stop and snap a picture. Read further for a closer look at some of the most scenic drives in America.
| Table of Contents [Show] |
|---|
Affiliate links may be used in this post. I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you use my affiliate link.
For those who want to feel unbelievable happiness and inspiration to live, Hana Highway (Hwy 360) in Maui, Hawaii is the perfect place to take a scenic drive. It is a 64.4-mile (103.6 km) long highway, which connects Kahului with the small town, Hana. While driving a car, you can see a splendid view, which will make your heart beats in the ecstasy. Ocean, plants, birds, and a fresh breeze will show you the beauty of natural surroundings. Enjoy your life to the full while becoming a part of a scenic view, waterfalls and amazing islands.
Address: Hana, HI 96713
Blue Ridge Parkway is famous for its spectacular beauty and one of the popular scenic drives in the USA. It is 469 miles (755 km) road, which goes through 29 counties and a mountain chain. You can enjoy wildlife while driving or take some accommodation on the way to have more time to explore beautiful surroundings. Be careful driver; there is a speed limit of 45 miles per hour on the territory of Blue Ridge Parkway. There are many towns located near the road, so you can stop at local inns and taste the unique culture of the US.
Address: 2551 Mountain View Rd, Vinton, VA 24179
Overseas Highway (Hwy 1), Florida runs for 127.5-mile (205.2 km). It obtained a special name, which is "The highway that goes to sea" because you will see only water during the entire scenic route. Constructing this highway demanded a lot of sources, finances, and efforts of the engineering team. People are charmed by its enchanting seascapes, splendid beauty, where sky connects with water and tropical plants. Take your time to enjoy the magnificent sunsets and fantastic atmosphere of a once-a-life-time-opportunity.
Address: Key West, FL
Many have heard of it, less have seen it, but definitely, no one is indifferent to the beauty, which is offered by Pacific Coast Hwy (Hwy 1), California. It is also famous for the Golden Gate Bridge. It runs along with coastal urban areas, where you can stop by and give yourself a chance to explore the local culture. Driving in a car, you can enjoy spectacular and magical views, feel nature, and get a wonderful experience.
Address: CA-1
Driving between Troutdale and The Dalles (state of Oregon) can become the most exciting part of your trip. Unique and incredible Columbia River Hwy (Hwy 30) fascinates and impresses tourists by the view, which encourages you to travel, to live, and to inspire. Columbia River Hwy runs for 75-mile (120 km), and sometimes it is hard even to believe that you actually see that palette of colors, shapes, cliffs, and falls. Do not hesitate to see natural sightseeing of Columbia River Hwy (Hwy 30) by yourself.
Address: I-84, Cascade Locks, OR 97014
All American Byway 12, which is located in Utah, also has a name "Highway 12 - A Journey Through Time Scenic Byway". It crosses many famous places to visit, such as Dixie National Forest and Bryce Canyon National Park. You can also dedicate some of your time to explore Boulder Mountain. Canyons in Utah are quite impressive, and you would have a wonderful opportunity to see them while driving. Diversity of landscapes in Utah and its natural charm attracts many visitors every year. You should be one of them!
Address: UT-12, Utah
Join a freeway on Turquoise Trail (Hwy 14), New Mexico! The route connects Albuquerque and Santa Fe and runs for 52-miles. You will be amazed by monumental cliffs, historical towns, and numerous activities, which are offered by travel agencies. A variety of landscapes shows you the real natural habitat and gives a unique opportunity to unite with nature. You can bring history alive in local counties and get a lot of inspiration from fields, mountains, and wildlife.
Address: Turquoise Trail, Tijeras, NM 87059
Nature is going to show you the best spectacular views ever during your slow drive on Mount Washington Auto Road. Explore breathtaking places and get intrigued by unrevealed secrets of New Hampshire. 7.6 mi (12.2 km) of pure beauty covers hills, fields, sky, and clouds. Get your relaxation while being part of the authentic surrounding. Also, you can watch there the annual Mount Washington Road Race.
Address: 1 Mount Washington Auto Road, Gorham, NH 03581
Also Read: Top 20 Most Beautiful Mountains to Visit in the USA
Cascades Loop, Washington runs for 400 miles starting from the north of Seattle to the Puget Sound. It is a famous route, which attracts a lot of tourists who are eager to see amazing natural habitats. On your way, you will be able to visit small towns, where you can find a place to stay or a restaurant, where you can try local cuisine. Charming landscapes will make unforgettable memories to you and will enrich your traveler's experience as well.
Address: 3245, Wenatchee, Washington 98807
Trail Ridge Road, Colorado is the highest road in the USA. In winter times, driving on Trail Ridge Road can be tricky, so mostly it is closed during cold and snowy weather. However, in summer you can find here a lot of things to see and to try. Trail Ridge Road is a home for many wild species and plants. Driving there will give you some magical and relaxing moments.
Address: Trail Ridge Rd, Grand Lake, CO 80447
Website: www.nps.gov