Do you want to get away from it all and explore some of the most beautiful roads in America? Well, you have come to the right place! This post will provide you with the best scenic roads in the U.S., from the West to the South. We’ll also give you with some tips and budgeting information to make your road trip a success. So, buckle up and get ready to hit the road!
No matter where you’re located in the United States, there is likely an amazing scenic road nearby. From the breathtaking Pacific Coast Highway and historic Route 66, to the winding roads of the Great Smoky Mountains and the beauty of the Appalachian Trail, there are endless opportunities for gorgeous drives in America. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, an unforgettable road trip, or an exciting adventure, there’s a scenic road to suit your needs.
The Most Scenic Drives In The U.S.
One of the most popular scenic drives in the U.S. is the Pacific Coast Highway in California. This winding road runs along the Pacific coastline for over 600 miles, taking you past some of the most breathtaking views in the country. From rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to stunning mountain passes and lush forests, the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most beautiful drives in the United States.
Another popular scenic drive is Route 66, the iconic highway that stretches from Chicago to Los Angeles. This historic road has seen countless road-trippers over the years, and it’s easy to see why. From the neon signs in small towns to the ever-changing landscape, Route 66 is a classic American drive.
If you’re looking for something a bit more off the beaten path, consider the Great River Road. This scenic drive stretches along the Mississippi River, taking you through ten states and providing stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside.
Scenic Routes In The West
The western U.S. is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the country. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the red rocks of the Southwest, there are endless opportunities for breathtaking drives in the West.
One of the most popular drives in the West is the Beartooth Highway in Montana. This winding mountain road takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the U.S. From rocky cliffs and alpine forests to stunning mountain passes and crystal-clear lakes, the Beartooth Highway is a must-see drive.
The Columbia River Gorge in Oregon is another stunning drive in the West. This route takes you along the Columbia River, which is lined with spectacular waterfalls and lush forests. For a scenic drive with a bit of adventure, consider the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. This winding road takes you through some of the most breathtaking views in the park, including the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Mountain.
Scenic Routes In The Northeast
The Northeast is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the U.S. From the winding roads of the Adirondacks to the rugged coastline of Maine, there are endless opportunities for breathtaking drives in the Northeast.
The Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire is a popular scenic drive in the Northeast. This winding road takes you through the White Mountains, providing stunning views of the lush forests and majestic mountains. The Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia is another stunning drive in the Northeast. This 469-mile route takes you through the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Scenic Routes In The Midwest
The Midwest is home to some of the most beautiful roads in the U.S. From the rolling hills of the Midwest to the stunning views of the Great Lakes, there are endless opportunities for stunning drives in the Midwest.
The Lake Superior Circle Tour in Minnesota is a popular drive in the Midwest. This route takes you along the largest of the Great Lakes, providing stunning views of the lake and the surrounding countryside. The Great River Road in Wisconsin is another popular drive in the Midwest. This route follows the Mississippi River, taking you past some of the most scenic views in the Midwest.
The Loess Hills Scenic Byway in Iowa is another stunning drive in the Midwest. This route takes you through the stunning Loess Hills, providing breathtaking views of the rolling hills and lush forests.
Scenic Routes In The South
The South is home to some of the most beautiful drives in the U.S. From the ever-changing landscape of the Florida Keys to the stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, there are endless opportunities for stunning drives in the South.
The Natchez Trace Parkway in Mississippi is a popular scenic drive in the South. This route takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the U.S., from lush forests and winding rivers to rolling hills and stunning waterfalls. The Blue Ridge Scenic Byway in Tennessee is another popular scenic drive in the South. This route takes you through the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The Overseas Highway in Florida is another iconic drive in the South. This 112-mile highway takes you along the Florida Keys, providing stunning views of the turquoise waters and lush forests.
Tips for Road Tripping on the Best Scenic Roads in America
No matter where you’re headed, there are a few tips you should keep in mind to make your road trip a success.
- Research Your Route: America is home to numerous scenic byways and highways. Plan your route in advance and decide which scenic roads you want to take.
- Check Road Conditions: Weather and road conditions can change rapidly, especially in mountainous or remote areas. Make sure to check the latest updates before you hit the road.
- Fuel Up: Some scenic routes may not have many gas stations. Always start with a full tank and refuel when you have the opportunity.
- Pack Snacks and Water: You might not pass a lot of stores or restaurants, so pack enough snacks and water to keep you fueled and hydrated.
- Capture the Moments: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to take photos, but make sure to pull over safely when you want to snap pictures.
- National Park Pass: If your route includes several national parks or federal lands, consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass for unlimited access.
- Accommodation Plans: Scenic roads often pass through small towns with limited lodging options. Book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Pack for the Weather: From the desert heat to alpine conditions, scenic roads can take you through various climates. Pack clothing that can be layered.
- Roadside Assistance: Make sure you have a current roadside assistance membership and know how to contact them in case of emergency.
- Local Etiquette: Some scenic roads pass through tribal lands or small communities. Always respect local customs and laws.
- Timing: Consider the best time of day for certain views and also keep in mind that some roads may be less crowded during the weekdays.
- Car Check-Up: Before leaving, make sure your vehicle is in good condition. Check tires, brakes, and fluids.
- Keep a Map: GPS is convenient, but it’s always good to have a physical map as a backup in areas where you might lose signal.
- Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like a first-aid kit, extra food and water, and basic car repair items.
- Take Your Time: Scenic roads are all about the journey. Don’t rush, and take your time to explore side attractions and viewpoints.
Packing List For A Road Trip
Packing for a road trip can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s a quick packing list to help you get started:
- Snacks and drinks
- Clothing and shoes
- Toiletries
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- First-aid kit
- Maps and directions
- Cell phone chargers
- Camera and accessories
- Laptop and chargers
- Blanket and pillow
- Books and magazines
- Radio and music
- Games and toys
Budgeting For A Road Trip
Budgeting for a road trip can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few tips to help you budget for your trip:
- Set a budget
- Determine how much you can afford to spend on your trip, and then stick to it
- Book in advance. Booking your accommodations and activities in advance can help you save money
- Bring your own food. Packing your own food can help you save money on meals.
- Look for discounts. Check for discounts on activities, attractions, and accommodations.
- Do your research. Research the area ahead of time to find cheaper activities and accommodations.
Conclusion
No matter where you’re located in the United States, there’s a stunning scenic road nearby. From the Pacific Coast Highway and Route 66 to the Great River Road and the Beartooth Highway, there are endless opportunities for beautiful drives in America. So, grab your map, pack your bags, and hit the road for an unforgettable road trip!