Scenic Drives Archives - scenicroutetravelers.com https://scenicroutetravelers.com/category/scenic-drives/ Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:43:17 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Best Scenic Drives in New Mexico (With Stunning Views & Charming Towns) https://scenicroutetravelers.com/best-scenic-drives-in-new-mexico-with-stunning-views-charming-towns/ https://scenicroutetravelers.com/best-scenic-drives-in-new-mexico-with-stunning-views-charming-towns/#respond Tue, 24 Mar 2026 15:30:00 +0000 https://scenicroutetravelers.com/?p=6447 New Mexico is made for road trips. Wide-open landscapes, dramatic desert views, mountain passes, and small towns full of character make it one of the most underrated scenic driving destinations in the U.S. From historic mining routes to alpine byways and iconic stretches of Route 66, you’ll find some of the best scenic drives in […]

The post Best Scenic Drives in New Mexico (With Stunning Views & Charming Towns) appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

]]>
New Mexico is made for road trips. Wide-open landscapes, dramatic desert views, mountain passes, and small towns full of character make it one of the most underrated scenic driving destinations in the U.S.

From historic mining routes to alpine byways and iconic stretches of Route 66, you’ll find some of the best scenic drives in New Mexico packed with overlooks, local food stops, and unforgettable views, many just steps from your car.

As an Amazon affiliate, when you click on some of the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission, at no cost to you! By using our affiliate links, you’ll find our favorite picks and support us at the same time. And we really appreciate your support!

Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a multi-day adventure, these drives showcase the very best of New Mexico’s landscapes, culture, and hidden gems.

Madrid, NM

Turquoise Trail Scenic Byway (Albuquerque to Santa Fe)

The Turquoise Trail Scenic Byway is one of the most popular scenic drives in New Mexico, connecting Albuquerque and Santa Fe.

This winding route delivers sweeping desert views, mountain backdrops, and historic mining towns. Stops like Madrid and Cerrillos bring personality to the drive with art galleries, quirky shops, and casual cafés serving New Mexican favorites.

It’s an easy, relaxed drive with plenty of pull-offs, perfect if you want big views without long hikes.

High Road to Taos

High Road to Taos Scenic Drive

The High Road to Taos is one of the most culturally rich drives in the state, winding through traditional Spanish villages and high desert landscapes on the way to Taos.

Highlights include Santuario de Chimayó, San Francisco de Asís Mission Church and Taos Pueblo.  Along the way, stop in small villages like Chimayó and Truchas for local bakeries, handmade crafts, and authentic New Mexican cuisine.

This drive is less about speed and more about soaking in history, culture, and incredible views.

Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway

Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway (Taos Loop)

The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway is an 85-mile loop around Taos that delivers some of the most diverse scenery in the state.

You’ll pass through small towns, state parks and lakes.  Red River is a lively alpine resort town where you can hop on the chairlift for panoramic views of the valley, hike to Wheeler’s Peak and more. Eagle Nest is home to Eagle Nest Lake State Park. Angel Fire is a small resort community with hiking and biking trails and stunning scenery.

Expect a mix of mountain peaks, forests, and wide valleys. It’s one of the best New Mexico scenic drives for variety, with plenty of places to stop for food, photos, or a quick adventure.

Gallup, NM

Route 66 (Albuquerque to Gallup)

Driving historic Route 66 west from Albuquerque to Gallup feels like stepping into a living postcard.

This stretch features vintage motels and neon signs, roadside art and murals and pure Route 66 nostalgia. You can’t beat the classic diners and the comfort food they serve. You’re also within reach of Petrified Forest National Park, making it an easy add-on for your road trip.

It’s quirky, nostalgic, and full of personality, perfect for a laid-back drive with plenty of photo stops.

Pro Tip: Be sure to have your camera, especially if you love Route 66 nostalgia. This is a fun trip and worth capturing the memories. We use a Kodak PixPro because not only is it a great size for traveling, but the picture quality is great, and it takes videos.

Red Rock State Park

Red Rock Park Loop (Near Gallup)

Just outside Gallup, the Red Rock Park Loop offers dramatic red sandstone formations with minimal effort.

The pull-offs give you up-close views of towering cliffs and plenty of photo opportunities. The park has a great museum with cultural exhibits and amazing hikes.

Pair the drive with a stop in Gallup for authentic New Mexican food. If you can’t decide between red or green chili on your enchilada, order Christmas- red and green.

Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway

Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway

Starting in downtown Santa Fe, this scenic byway climbs into the mountains toward the Santa Fe Ski Basin in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Along the way you’ll pass Hyde Memorial State Park, where the massive stone-and-log Hyde Park Lodge is. You’ll enjoy the aspen and evergreen forests along the route, and you’ll find picnic areas and scenic overlooks.

Santa Fe’s plaza area offers restaurants serving enchiladas, sopapillas, and tamales.  Local bakeries near the plaza make it easy to grab pastries or head to Kakawa Chocolate House for chocolates, ice cream and hot chocolate. Amazing.

 This drive is short but packed with scenery from vast vistas of amber-tinged badlands to azure mountains.

Rio Grande Gorge Bridge

Rio Grande Gorge Bridge Drive (Near Taos)

A short drive outside Taos leads to one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the state: the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge.

From the parking area, it’s just a quick walk to the jaw-dropping canyon views and deep river gorges all with great wide-open desert landscapes.  It’s one of those stops that feels way bigger than the effort it takes to see it.

Taos Pueblo and the town of Taos are a short drive away with cafés and friendly diners serving local stews and tacos and plenty of shopping.

Be sure to bring binoculars for this drive. Views of the Rio Grande from the bridge are stunning, especially with binoculars. We like these binoculars because they have 8X zoom and come with a tripod.

El Malpais National Monument Scenic Drive

El Malpais National Monument Scenic Drive

The drive through El Malpais National Monument showcases a completely different side of New Mexico. You can expect to see vast lava fields, Volcanic landscapes and stark desert beauty.

The Historic Route 66 District in Grants, NM, is a charming area filled with unique shops, diners, and cafes. This district captures the spirit of the iconic Route 66 and is perfect for those who appreciate history.

Pull-offs let you explore the terrain without long hikes. The stark terrain feels striking against the sky, making short stops feel quite rewarding.

White Sands Drive

White Sands Drive (Alamogordo)

Driving toward White Sands National Park from Alamogordo is unlike anything else in the U.S. Bright white gypsum dunes stretch across the landscape, and you can stop for short walks and try sand sledding in the park.

Alamogordo offers a variety of ways to spend a day from the missile range to a pistachio farm. Downtown offers lots of shopping and restaurants for every craving.

It’s one of the most unique scenic drives in the country.

Cumbres Pass Scenic Drive

Cumbres Pass Scenic Drive (Near Chama)

The drive through Cumbres Pass near Chama delivers wide-open mountain and valley views.  The drive gives space for short stops where families can take in the quiet of open country with minimal walking. Some rest areas include picnic tables and restrooms.

Chama is also home to the famous Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, a great add-on experience if you want to slow things down even more. After your train ride you can grab a bite in town at one of the many restaurants.

Caballo Lake State Park

Caballo Lake Scenic Drive (Truth or Consequences)

Near Truth or Consequences, this drive loops around Caballo Lake State Park.

The loop offer great lakeside views with pull-offs for pics and picnics. Caballo Lake State Park has a variety of water activities for a great day enjoying the sun and sand.

Nearby Truth or Consequences is well known for it’s many spas but there is much more to this town. From museums to shopping, parks and local art. You’ll find coffee shops, diners and restaurants with many cuisines. Perfect for an overnight stay.

Final Thoughts

If you want to experience the best of the Southwest without long hikes, New Mexico’s scenic drives deliver in a big way. From desert landscapes and volcanic terrain to alpine forests and historic villages, these routes offer a little bit of everything, often just steps from your car.

The real magic of a New Mexico road trip isn’t just the views; it’s the unexpected stops along the way. A roadside café, a hidden gallery, or a small town you didn’t plan on visiting often ends up being the highlight.

 We love sharing tips and information we learn along the way with you to help you plan your next vacation. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories. So take your time, pull over often, and let the road lead you somewhere memorable.

The post Best Scenic Drives in New Mexico (With Stunning Views & Charming Towns) appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

]]>
https://scenicroutetravelers.com/best-scenic-drives-in-new-mexico-with-stunning-views-charming-towns/feed/ 0
25 Epic Scenic Road Trips in America (Bucket-List Worthy!) https://scenicroutetravelers.com/25-epic-scenic-road-trips-in-america-bucket-list-worthy/ https://scenicroutetravelers.com/25-epic-scenic-road-trips-in-america-bucket-list-worthy/#respond Sun, 14 Dec 2025 00:04:58 +0000 https://scenicroutetravelers.com/?p=5672 The United States was practically built for road trips. Coastlines, red rock deserts, alpine lakes, lonely highways, and national parks, you name it, there’s a scenic drive that will blow your mind. With so many incredible routes to choose from, narrowing it down can feel impossible. So, we’ve gathered 25 of the most beautiful, unforgettable […]

The post 25 Epic Scenic Road Trips in America (Bucket-List Worthy!) appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

]]>
The United States was practically built for road trips. Coastlines, red rock deserts, alpine lakes, lonely highways, and national parks, you name it, there’s a scenic drive that will blow your mind. With so many incredible routes to choose from, narrowing it down can feel impossible. So, we’ve gathered 25 of the most beautiful, unforgettable road trips in the country – routes that truly rise above the rest with iconic views, dramatic landscapes, and pure open-road magic.

Whether you’re craving rugged mountains, oceanside cliffs, ghost towns, rainforest drives, or winding desert roads, these scenic trips will inspire your next adventure.

As an Amazon affiliate, when you click on some of the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission, at no cost to you! By using our affiliate links, you’ll find our favorite picks and support us at the same time. And we really appreciate your support.

Cascade Scenic Route Byway

Alaska Route 1 –Alaska

Also known as the Glenn and Seward Highways, Alaska Route 1 delivers jaw-dropping views from start to finish. This route runs from Homer toward the Canadian border, cutting through Anchorage and weaving past glaciers, towering mountains, and the shimmering Cook Inlet. With long summer days and clear roads, late May to early September is the prime time to take this unforgettable drive.

Pro Tip: Even in summer, nights can get cool so be sure to check temperature and pack a coat.

Olympic Peninsula Loop – Washington

This 329-mile loop around Olympic National Park gives you a sample platter of Washington’s greatest hits: rugged coastline, lush rainforest, glassy lakes, and snow-dusted mountains. You can do it in a day… but trust me, you’ll want extra time for rainforest hikes and beach walks.

Cascade Loop Scenic Byway – Washington

If driving through a real-life postcard sounds appealing, the Cascade Loop delivers. This 440-mile alpine journey includes Leavenworth, a Bavarian-style mountain town with back drops that make you think you’re in the Alps. You’ll see blooming spring tulip fields, crystalline lakes, and the dramatic Methow Valley – Washington’s own Wild West.

Our favorite camera: You don’t want to go on these road trips without a camera. You’ll want to remember these beautiful scenes. We like the Kodak ProPix, it’s a great size and I really like the video feature.

Going-to-the-Sun Road – Montana

This 50-mile masterpiece winds through Glacier National Park, climbing into a world of waterfalls, glaciers, and wildlife. Must-stop spots include Jackson Glacier Overlook and Logan Pass (the highest point you can reach by car). Plan several hours, there’s no rushing a road like this.

Historic Columbia River Highway – Oregon

Nicknamed the “King of Roads,” this 70-mile historic byway hugs the Columbia River Gorge. Expect dramatic basalt cliffs, sweeping overlooks, and famous sights like Vista House and Multnomah Falls.

Historic Columbia River Highway

Rim Drive – Oregon

Encircling Crater Lake’s impossibly blue water, Rim Drive’s 33 miles are pure magic. Pullouts offer views of cliffs, islands, wildflowers, and forested slopes surrounding the deepest lake in the U.S.

More National Park Road Trips: Road Trip Ready: 20 National Parks with Scenic Drives

Highway 299 – California

Crossing Northern California from Redding to the Nevada border, Highway 299 is a rugged road full of ghost towns, wild forests, the Trinity Alps and enough spooky stories to fill a campfire night.

Silverado Trail – California

Running parallel to Highway 29, the Silverado Trail offers a quieter 30-mile ride through Napa Valley’s wineries and vineyards. It’s scenic, peaceful, and a wine-lover’s favorite.

Rim of the World Scenic Byway – California

This scenic byway gets it’s name because it rides along the edges of the San Bernadino Mountains. This byway delivers panoramic views of lakes, forests, and granite peaks, ending near Big Bear Lake, a year-round mountain escape.

Pacific Coast Highway / Big Sur – California

Few drives can compete with the drama of Highway 1 along Big Sur: crashing waves, teal waters, steep cliffs, redwood groves, and curves that feel straight out of a movie. This is one of the most well-known road trips in the country and for good reason! Put the top down, sunglasses on and feel the freedom of this curvy, ocean-hugging road.

San Juan Skyway

San Juan Skyway – Colorado

Winding for 233 miles through the red hued San Juan Mountains, the San Juan Skyway is one of those roads that really is all about the drive. There are fascinating places to stop, from historic railroad town Durango to ski resort Telluride. You’ll see canyons, alpine lakes and beautiful vistas along the way.

Trail Ridge Road – Colorado

The highest paved road in the U.S. climbs through Rocky Mountain National Park, offering meadows full of wildflowers, fall foliage, elk, and sweeping mountain views across 48 unforgettable miles. If you’re looking for a peaceful, stunning drive visit in fall to see the beautiful reds, oranges and yellows!

Valley of the Gods Loop – Utah

This 17-mile unpaved loop is pure desert magic. Sandstone towers, scenic pullouts, narrow turns, and quiet solitude make it one of Utah’s most underrated drives.  Valley of the Gods is part of Bears Ears National Monument so plan extra time to explore the area.

Forrest Gump Road – Utah

Located on US-163, this stretch through Monument Valley is famous for its movie moment – but the real star is the landscape: dramatic mesas, red rock buttes, and endless horizons. Monument Valley is one of the most photographed places on earth and once you explore here, you’ll understand why.

Forest Gump Road

Scenic Byway 12 (aka “A Journey Through Time Scenic Byway”) – Utah

Stretching 123 miles, this All-American Road connects breathtaking desert landscapes, canyons, arches, and mountain vistas. You will even drive through two arches. Along the “Hogsback” between Escalante and Boulder, hairpin turns dare you on a road that drops off drastically from the shoulders down into deep canyons below.  A quick detour to Escalante Petrified Forest is worth the stop. This is one road trip you won’t forget!

Route 50 – Nevada

“The Loneliest Road in America” lives up to its name, in the best way. Wide-open desert, mountains, blue skies, and long, quiet stretches give this Nevada drive an unforgettable wild-west vibe. But it’s not completely deserted- make pit stops in Austin, Eureka and Ely for Sagebrush Saloons, hot springs and outdoor fun. Detour to Great Basin National Park where you’ll find 5,000-year-old trees and really, really tall mountains.

Pro Tip: Pick up little souvenirs at each stop, like a post card or magnet to put in a memory box when you get home. I collect magnets and keep them on this magnet board. It’s fun looking at them and remembering the trip. If you prefer a memory box, Amazon has some cute ones.

Highway 89A – Arizona

This route through Oak Creek Canyon and Sedona features natural springs, red rock cliffs, forests, and stunning canyon views. Take it slow, the twists and switchbacks demand it. Highway 89A is a detour through Sedona from Highway 89 which runs from Mexico to Canda, which is dubbed America’s Most Scenic Road Trip and one of the longest.

Santa Fe to Taos Loop -New Mexico

Take the High Road to Taos through forests and mountain views, then the Low Road back along the Rio Grande and through a dramatic canyon. Together, they form a must-drive 165-mile loop. On the High Road there are many small towns and villages like Chimayó, where you’ll find the 19th-century Santuario de Chimayó. Enjoy the mighty Rio Grande on your way back where you’ll find wineries and artist studios in the small towns.

Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway – South Dakota

Travel 70 miles through the Black Hills via twisting tunnels, granite spires, Custer State Park, and iconic monuments like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse. This byway will allow you to see the best sights in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway

Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway – Illinois

This 33-mile Illinois route follows one of the most scenic stretches of the Mississippi River, where three major rivers, Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois converge.

Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway – Maine

 A 35-mile route packed with lakes, mountain views, and charming New England scenery. The higher you climb, the more spectacular the views become including when – including Mooselookmeguntic Lake reveals itself.

Bold Coast Scenic Byway – Maine

This route could be named for the bold blue of the water, which the road skims right alongside. Or perhaps it’s just called the Bold Coast because this part of Maine, from Milbridge to Eastport, is so strikingly beautiful. No matter, this 125-mile coastal route winds past lobster wharfs, forests, cliffs, and peaceful harbors. Slow down, you’ll want to take in every beautiful detail.

Pro Tip: Make sure your car is safe before you head out on your road trip. Read our tips for prepping your car: Pre-Road Trip Checklist: Essential Prep for a Smooth Journey.

Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway – New York

There are more than two-dozen wineries along the shores of Cayuga Lake, one of New York state’s skinny Finger Lakes. Taking your time driving this 86-mile loop is well worth it. You’ll follow the water’s edge and pass state parks, fun villages and Montezuma Wildlife Refuge, home to bald eagles and waterfowl.

Highway 399 – Florida

This 22-mile coastal route through the Gulf Islands National Seashore delivers sugar-white dunes, pastel beach houses, and endless ocean views. If you love water, then this is the road trip for you.

Overseas Highway

Overseas Highway (US 1) – Florida Keys

One of America’s most iconic drives, the Overseas Highway feels like flying over turquoise water as long bridges connect the islands all the way to Key West. This 113-mile drive provides amazing views of islands, marine life and the ocean. You find countless places to stop along the way including two state parks and Dry Tortugas National Park.

Final Thoughts

From rugged mountain passes to ocean-hugging highways and quiet desert roads, the United States is full of scenic drives that showcase the country’s wild, diverse beauty. No matter where you wander, each route offers its own unforgettable views and road-trip memories. Whether you’re planning a long adventure or a quick getaway, these drives prove you don’t need endless time, just a tank of gas and the urge to explore.

For fun road trip ideas check out this book, Road Trip USA. We got some good ideas from it.

We didn’t include the two iconic road trips of Route 66 and the Blue Ridge Parkway since they cover many states and take more than a day to travel. We love to share information and tips we learn to help you plan your vacations. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.

Learn More About Route 66 Road Trips: Guide to Arizona’s Mother Road: Route 66 Kicks and read more: Kick It Up on Route 66: New Mexico Bucket List

The post 25 Epic Scenic Road Trips in America (Bucket-List Worthy!) appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

]]>
https://scenicroutetravelers.com/25-epic-scenic-road-trips-in-america-bucket-list-worthy/feed/ 0
Road Trip Ready: 20 National Parks with Unforgettable Scenic Drives https://scenicroutetravelers.com/road-trip-ready-20-national-parks-with-unforgettable-scenic-drives/ https://scenicroutetravelers.com/road-trip-ready-20-national-parks-with-unforgettable-scenic-drives/#respond Mon, 16 Jun 2025 01:10:46 +0000 https://scenicroutetravelers.com/?p=4240 You don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy the jaw-dropping beauty of America’s national parks. In fact, some of the best views come straight from the comfort of your car. Whether you’re chasing epic mountain vistas, desert landscapes, or winding forest roads, these scenic drives offer a front-row seat to some of the […]

The post Road Trip Ready: 20 National Parks with Unforgettable Scenic Drives appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

]]>
You don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy the jaw-dropping beauty of America’s national parks. In fact, some of the best views come straight from the comfort of your car. Whether you’re chasing epic mountain vistas, desert landscapes, or winding forest roads, these scenic drives offer a front-row seat to some of the most iconic and underrated sights in the country. We’re not exactly hiking fanatics ourselves (give us a snack and a view any day), so I went on the hunt for national parks where the road does the work showing plenty of overlooks, photo ops, and yes, a few short, sweet trails if you’re up for it. Here are the best parks to explore without breaking a sweat.

This post includes some affiliate links. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, we will receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support.

Acadia National Park

East Coast Sights

Acadia National Park, Maine

Park Loop Road– This is a 27-mile loop through Mount Desert Island. This very scenic road connects several of Acadia’s popular spots, such as Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, and the carriage roads. Most of this road is one-way. Starting in the north near Bar Harbor and traveling clockwise, the Park Loop Road is one-way until you reach Jordan Pond. The section between Jordan Pond and Cadillac Mountain is a two-way road. You can also take a side trip to Cadillac Mountain.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Skyline Drive – Running for 105 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Skyline Drive is the only road through Shenandoah National Park. Four entrance stations offer access to this exceptionally scenic mountain road. Along the way, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Blue Ridge and Shenandoah Valley from more than 70 overlooks.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina & Tennessee

Various Trails – There is more than 270 miles of road, mostly paved, offering a variety of scenic drives in this park. Many of them are short drives, such as Cades Cove Loop which is 11 miles, and some are longer. Stop at one of the visitors centers to get maps to plan your trip. All offer amazing views.

Tamiami Trail Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida

US Hwy 41-This two-hour drive on US Hwy 41 between Miami and Naples takes you through the heart of the Everglades, the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.  Scenic stops along the way offer even better wildlife-viewing experiences. When to Go: The summer wet season is the best time to view alligators. Visit between November and March to avoid extreme heat, humidity, and mosquitoes.

Badlands National Park

Northern Wonders

Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway – One of the most remarkable drives you’ll ever do is in South Dakota’s Badlands National Park. Officially known as Route 240, this road winds its way for over 30 miles through a landscape dominated by grasslands and colorful sandstone hills, buttes and spires. There are more than a dozen amazing overlooks, many of which offer truly phenomenal  views of the Badlands.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota

South Unit -The South Unit’s scenic drive is a 48-mile scenic drive beginning and ending in Medora, ND. Driving alone takes 2 hours but you’ll want to stop at the overlooks, so plan more time. The entire loop lies within the Little Missouri Badlands.

North Unit– The North Unit’s 28-mile scenic drive takes a little over an hour to complete without stops, out-and-back. The road rolls across the badlands and then climbs up to the historic River Bend Overlook. From there, it follows the rim of the prairie with sweeping views all the way to the end of the road at Oxbow Overlook. The scenic drives usually have the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Old Faithful- Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Lamar Valley Road – This road is between the northeastern entrance and Lamar Valley and is 29 miles long. It is arguably the best place for Yellowstone National Park wildlife watching from your car. There are a few other drives you can take through the park. Of course, you have to visit Old Faithful while you’re here!

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

 Teton Park Road – Twenty miles long, Teton Park Road runs from Moose Junction to Jackson Lake Junction. There are countless attractions along the way, including the Jenny Lake Visitor Center and numerous overlooks. If you’re looking for those iconic Grand Teton views, this is the road for you!

Glacier National Park, Montana

 Going-to-the-Sun Road – One of the most scenic drives in America. Nearly 50 miles long, this road features a bunch of hairpin bends, which render it unsuitable for vehicles longer than 21 feet and wider than 8 feet. Plenty of facilities make the drive an absolute breeze with smaller vehicles, though. There are three visitor centers, five campgrounds and several overlooks and picnic areas. In early summer, when the snow and ice start to melt, you will find beautiful waterfalls. Going-to-the-Sun Road is absolutely amazing.

Arches National Park

Southwest Beauty

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

 Trail Ridge Road -This road connects Estes Park and Grand Lake, Colorado. The road traverses the breathtaking Rocky Mountains near Denver, climbing several thousands of feet in mere minutes. Eleven of the 48 miles lie above tree level, offering amazingly undisturbed views of the Rockies and the Great Plains. The road reaches an elevation of 12,183 feet, which makes it the highest continuously paved road in the United States.

Arches National Park, Utah

Arches Scenic Drive – This road doesn’t even have an official name but is unquestionably one of the most gorgeous scenic drives in national parks. It’s generally referred to simply as the Arches Scenic Drive or the Arches Park Road. This is the only road through Arches National Park, along with its two spur roads offering access to most of the park’s main attractions. The scenic drive is only 18 miles long, but it can take an entire day to see if you stop at the overlooks and take those photos of the natural beauty including more than a dozen spectacular arches. It’s hard to miss them considering that the road literally runs past many of them.

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Utah Scenic Byway 24 – The section of Utah Highway 24 that runs through Capitol Reef National Park is one of the must-see scenic drives of all the national parks. Since Capitol Reef lies essentially in between Bryce Canyon National Park to the east and Arches and Canyonlands National Parks near Moab, it’s one of the most popular and best national parks to drive though. In addition to the Utah Scenic Byway 24, the park also has its designated Scenic Drive, a 25-mile journey through epic desert and canyon landscapes.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Desert View Drive– Following the South Rim of the Grand Canyon for 25 miles, Desert View Drive is one of the most sensational national parks roads in the nation. It runs from Grand Canyon Village eastward to Desert View, passing by six fantastic viewpoints, four picnic areas and the Tusayan Museum. For more helpful tips for visiting the Grand Canyon National Park, read our blog.

Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Petrified Forest Road – The trip from one end of the park to the other is about 28 miles. There’s so much to see, from the Painted Desert in the north to the southern half of the drive, where most of the petrified wood lies. The 28-mile drive passes through a variety of environments, colorful rock formations, and scenic pullouts with spectacular views. At the Crystal Forest Trail, petrified logs can easily be seen within steps of the parking area. It’s possible to spot wildlife along the drive as well.

Joshua Tree National Park

West Coast Adventures

Death Valley National Park, California

California Highway 190 – There’s almost 800 miles of roads, paved and unpaved, in Death Valley National Park, the largest U.S. national park outside of Alaska. They make even the remotest areas in this vast desert park accessible. The most convenient road, however, is California Highway 190, which cuts through the middle of the park. From Panamint Springs in the west to Death Valley Junction in the east, this is one of the classic and most iconic highways in California, if not in the entire U.S.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Park Boulevard – This may be one of the easiest drives in this list. This essentially flat road runs between the north and west entrances and crosses the high desert area in the park. This is where most of the iconic Joshua trees are found. There are a few side roads where you can explore some of the rock formations, but even if you stay on this drive, there are many overlooks to stop and see the beautiful rock formations and Joshua Trees. Learn more about this amazing park here.

Yosemite National Park, California

Tioga Road – Tioga Road in Yosemite National Park is an extension of Route 120 through the park. This wonderful mountain road snakes 47 miles from Crane Flat to Tioga Pass. It runs along Yosemite’s iconic granite domes, past lakes, through forests and across Tuolumne Meadows, one of the park’s most beautiful areas. Because of its relatively high elevation, inclement winter weather causes the road to be closed from approximately late-October through late-May.

Yosemite Falls- Yosemite National Park

Crater Lake National Park, Oregan

 Rim Drive – One of the most fun drives in any American national park is the Rim Drive in Crater Lake National Park. This 33-mile road loops around the Crater Lake caldera and is spectacular for both driving and road cycling. Because of the area’s heavy snowfall in winter, the road is usually closed to vehicle traffic from mid-October through late spring. What makes this drive so unique and awesome is that it offers you stunning views of Crater Lake and its iconic island (a mini volcano within the caldera) from every possible angle.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Hurricane Ridge Road –One of the shortest scenic drives in national parks on this list, 17-mile-long Hurricane Ridge Road is among the most spectacular ones. Climbing from Port Angeles to the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center in Olympic National Park, it leads visitors through subalpine meadows, old-growth forests and a stunning mountain landscape. The view from the visitor center is outstanding.

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Road to Paradise – The “Road to Paradise” starts at the Nisqually Entrance, where you’ll start your drive through old growth forests. It actually leads to an area in the park named Paradise. The road provides stunning views of Mt. Rainier, Nisqually Glacier, Narada Falls, and several other glaciers. You will find amazing scenery and beautiful vistas on this road. This trip will take you around the entire park and can last 4- 8 hours depending on the number of stops you make.

Olympic National Park

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a road tripper, a casual explorer, or someone who prefers wheels over hiking boots, these national parks prove you don’t have to trek for miles to be wowed. Scenic drives offer a relaxing, accessible way to connect with nature and witness some of the most stunning landscapes in the U.S., no blisters required. So, fill up the tank, grab your camera, and start planning your next park adventure. Trust me, the views are worth every mile.

We want to help you plan your next adventures with knowledge and tips we’ve learned along the way to help make your planning easier and less stressful. If you want to make your adventure a road trip and need some help, check out roadtrippers.com and use code BTR5QTP. I used them for our trip to Palm Springs and it gave me some great places to stop along the way! We hope to inspire you to find your own adventure, have fun and make lots of memories.

The post Road Trip Ready: 20 National Parks with Unforgettable Scenic Drives appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

]]>
https://scenicroutetravelers.com/road-trip-ready-20-national-parks-with-unforgettable-scenic-drives/feed/ 0