The Top 7 Scenic Highways in the US: A Road Trip Lover’s Guide

Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the United States, located within Rocky Mountain National Park. This iconic route offers travelers an opportunity to explore the breathtaking beauty of Colorado’s high-altitude landscapes.

As you ascend to over 12,000 feet, you’ll experience stunning views of alpine tundra dotted with vibrant wildflowers and roaming wildlife like elk and bighorn sheep. The road offers numerous pullouts where you can soak in the panoramic vistas and marvel at the rugged beauty of the Rockies.

Notable Towns and Vista Locations:

• Estes Park: The eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a charming town with a vibrant arts scene and quaint shops. It’s a great place to begin your journey, with plenty of dining and lodging options.

• Alpine Visitor Center: At 11,796 feet, this is the highest visitor center in the National Park System. It provides stunning views and is a perfect spot to learn more about the unique alpine environment.

• Forest Canyon Overlook: Offers breathtaking views of the dramatic valleys and peaks that define the heart of the Rockies.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall is ideal for traveling Trail Ridge Road, as the snow has receded and the park is alive with the sights and sounds of nature.

San Juan Skyway (Rocky Mountains)

This 236-mile loop through the San Juan Mountains offers a journey through some of Colorado's most dramatic and picturesque scenery. The San Juan Skyway is a designated All-American Road, celebrated for its breathtaking beauty and historical significance.

The route passes through stunning landscapes featuring towering peaks, deep canyons, and lush forests. Highlights include the famous Million Dollar Highway, a section known for its dizzying heights and jaw-dropping views.

Notable Towns and Vista Locations:

• Durango: A historic town with a rich railroad heritage, Durango offers a charming downtown with galleries, shops, and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.

• Silverton: Nestled in a high mountain valley, Silverton is a picturesque town with Victorian-era architecture and a fascinating mining history.

• Ouray: Known as the "Switzerland of America," Ouray is surrounded by towering peaks and offers hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic vistas.

• Red Mountain Pass: This vista point offers panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains and is particularly beautiful in the fall.

Best Time to Visit: Fall is the perfect time to travel the San Juan Skyway, as the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning natural tapestry.

Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (Rocky Mountains)

The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is Colorado’s oldest scenic byway, offering a picturesque route that connects Estes Park to Central City. This drive showcases the majestic Front Range, providing a quintessential Colorado experience.

Travelers will enjoy sweeping views of the Continental Divide, lush forests, and alpine meadows. The byway offers numerous opportunities to explore historic towns and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.

Notable Towns and Vista Locations:

• Estes Park: A popular mountain town known for its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park offers quaint shops, dining options, and easy access to outdoor adventures.

• Nederland: A quirky and artistic town that hosts the annual Frozen Dead Guy Days festival. It’s a great place to stop for a bite to eat or to explore local galleries.

• Central City and Black Hawk: Known for their historic gold mining heritage and casinos, these twin towns offer a mix of history, entertainment, and dining.

• Brainard Lake Recreation Area: A beautiful spot to enjoy hiking, picnicking, and views of the surrounding peaks and lakes.

Best Time to Visit: Summer and fall are ideal times to travel the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway. Summer brings clear skies and wildflowers, while fall offers spectacular foliage displays.

Columbia River Gorge (Oregon/Washington)

The Columbia River Gorge is a breathtaking 80-mile river canyon that forms the border between Oregon and Washington. This natural wonder offers a blend of dramatic landscapes, lush forests, and a vibrant cultural history.

Travelers will be treated to views of towering waterfalls, dense forests, and the majestic Columbia River. The gorge is renowned for its diverse recreational opportunities, including hiking, windsurfing, and exploring charming small towns.

Notable Towns and Vista Locations:

• Hood River: Known as the windsurfing capital of the world, Hood River is a lively town with craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and stunning views of the river.

• Multnomah Falls: One of the most iconic waterfalls in the gorge, Multnomah Falls is a must-see attraction with a beautiful hiking trail leading to an upper viewpoint.

• Cascade Locks: A small town with a rich history and access to the Pacific Crest Trail. It’s a great place to learn about the history of the Columbia River and enjoy the scenic beauty of the gorge.

• Rowena Crest Viewpoint: Offers sweeping views of the Columbia River and the surrounding cliffs, making it a popular spot for photography and picnicking.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal for visiting the Columbia River Gorge. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and roaring waterfalls, while fall offers colorful foliage and crisp, clear days.

Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)

Going-to-the-Sun Road is a scenic drive through Glacier National Park, offering some of the most spectacular mountain views in the country. This engineering marvel cuts across the Continental Divide, providing a breathtaking journey through the heart of the Rockies.

The road features glacier-carved peaks, pristine alpine meadows, and the chance to see wildlife like mountain goats and bears. It offers numerous pullouts where travelers can stop and take in the dramatic vistas.

Notable Towns and Vista Locations:

• West Glacier: The western gateway to Glacier National Park, West Glacier offers access to outdoor adventures, park information, and amenities.

• Logan Pass: At the summit of the road, Logan Pass provides stunning views of the surrounding peaks and access to hiking trails like the Hidden Lake Trail.

• St. Mary: Located on the eastern side of the park, St. Mary is a small town with visitor services and access to the park’s eastern trails and attractions.

• Jackson Glacier Overlook: Offers one of the best views of a glacier from the road, providing a sobering reminder of the park’s changing landscape.

Best Time to Visit: Late summer is the best time to visit Going-to-the-Sun Road, as the snow has melted, and all sections of the road are open to visitors, offering full access to the park’s stunning vistas.

Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina/Virginia)

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile route through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks. Known for its serene beauty, the parkway offers a tranquil escape into the heart of the Appalachian wilderness.

The drive features rolling hills, pastoral landscapes, and a variety of cultural heritage sites. The parkway is known for its scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and vibrant flora and fauna.

Notable Towns and Vista Locations:

• Asheville, NC: A vibrant city known for its arts scene, historic architecture, and access to the southern end of the parkway. It’s a hub for culture, food, and music.

• Blowing Rock, NC: A charming mountain village with unique shops, restaurants, and access to outdoor activities. It’s a perfect stop for exploring the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

• Mabry Mill: One of the most photographed spots on the parkway, Mabry Mill offers a glimpse into the region’s rural history and culture.

• Linville Falls: A spectacular waterfall with several trails offering different perspectives and a chance to explore the surrounding forest.

Best Time to Visit: Spring is ideal for blooming wildflowers, while fall transforms the landscape into a canvas of colorful foliage, making both seasons perfect for a visit.

Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire)

Love leaf peeping? The Kancamagus Highway is a 34.5-mile stretch through New Hampshire’s White Mountains, renowned for its natural beauty and serene landscapes. This scenic byway is a favorite among leaf-peepers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The drive offers dense forests, stunning waterfalls, and scenic overlooks that provide panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a road where travelers can truly immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.

Notable Towns and Vista Locations:

• Lincoln: A small town with access to hiking trails, restaurants, and the Loon Mountain Resort. It’s a great base for exploring the western end of the Kancamagus Highway.

• North Conway: Known for its charming village atmosphere and proximity to outdoor activities, North Conway offers shopping, dining, and access to the eastern end of the highway.

• Sabbaday Falls: A short hike leads to this beautiful waterfall, where visitors can enjoy the soothing sounds of cascading water and the lush forest surroundings.

• Kancamagus Pass: The highest point on the highway, offering sweeping views of the White Mountains and a perfect spot for photography.

Best Time to Visit: Autumn is the best time to experience the stunning fall colors, which paint the landscape in vibrant hues and provide a peaceful and picturesque drive.

Get Out There! 

Exploring these scenic highways offers a chance to experience the diverse and breathtaking landscapes of the United States. 

From the towering peaks of Colorado to the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest and the vibrant foliage of the East, each route provides a unique journey filled with natural beauty and cultural charm. 

So pack your bags, hit the road, and let the scenic wonders of these highways guide your next adventure.