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.

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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.

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 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 (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.

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 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

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 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

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 (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 (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 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.

From rugged coastlines and alpine passes to desert highways and tropical drives, these are the best states for a road trip in the United States, whether you’re chasing mountain views, coastal sunsets, or classic Americana.

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!

Washington: Evergreen Beauty Meets Rugged Coastline

Washington delivers serious road trip range.

Drive the Olympic Peninsula Loop for beaches, rainforests, and mountain passes all in one sweep. Cruise the North Cascades Highway (seasonal but spectacular) for alpine lakes and jagged peaks. Or circle Mount Rainier National Park, where the volcano dominates the skyline like it owns the place.

From Seattle’s urban buzz to the quiet ferry rides across Puget Sound, Washington blends wild scenery with culture seamlessly.

Oregon: Coastlines, Volcanoes & Waterfalls in One State

Oregon is made for scenic driving.

The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway hugs dramatic cliffs and winds past lighthouses and seaside towns like Cannon Beach. Inland, you’ll find Crater Lake National Park, home to the deepest, bluest lake in the country.

Add in Mount Hood, waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, and craft coffee stops along the way you’ll find that Oregon packs variety into every mile.

Pro Tip: Be sure to check the weather when you’re planning your trip, some roads, like the ones to Crater Lake are closed when it snows.

California: The Ultimate Coastal & Mountain Road Trip State

If one state defines American road trips, it’s California.

Drive the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) for ocean cliffs, Big Sur, Monterey, and Malibu. Head inland for Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe, and giant sequoias.

Prefer desert drama? Joshua Tree and Death Valley bring surreal landscapes. Napa Valley offers vineyard views and scenic backroads.

In California, you can surf at sunrise and hike alpine peaks by sunset, all in the same day!

Montana: Big Sky & Iconic Mountain Highways

Montana is road trip freedom in its purest form.

The legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park cuts through alpine meadows and glacial valleys. The Beartooth Highway offers jaw-dropping elevation and views on the way to Yellowstone.

In Western Montana you’ll find Mission Mountains and Swan Range. As you travel the Seeley-Swan Valley you’ll see massive mountains reflecting off glass-smooth natural lakes.

Montana’s wide-open roads, charming small towns and glassy mountain lakes make you slow down, in the best way.

Pro Tip: Before you leave on a road trip make sure your car is checked for oil, wiper fluid, etc. Always bring things you’ll need for an emergency. We bought this roadside assistance emergency kit; it has everything you need in case of an emergency.

Read Next: Hit the Road Smart: Essential Road Trip Tips for a Safe and Stress-Free Journey

Wyoming: National Parks & Wild West Landscapes

Wyoming feels untamed.

Drive through Yellowstone National Park for geysers, wildlife, and dramatic scenery. Loop around Grand Teton National Park for postcard-perfect mountain views.

Outside the parks, places like Wind River Canyon and Cody bring cowboy culture and open prairie skies into the mix. If you love wide horizons and western grit, Wyoming delivers.

Pro Tip: When visiting the northern states, be sure to bring layers as it can warm up during the day, but the nights can get cold.

Colorado: High Alpine Roads & Mountain Town Charm

Colorado road trips mean altitude and attitude.

The Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton is equal parts thrilling and beautiful. Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park climbs above 12,000 feet making it one of the highest paved roads in North America.

Add in small towns like Telluride, Crested Butte, and Estes Park for cozy stops. Add in fall foliage and you’ve got one seriously scenic state.

Utah: The Mighty Five & Scenic Byway 12

Utah might be the most dramatic road trip state in America.

The “Mighty Five” National Parks – Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Park, are all connected by jaw-dropping highways.

Scenic Byway 12, often called one of America’s most beautiful drives, connects many of these wonders in one unforgettable route along with Bears Ears National Monument and Newspaper Rock Petroglyphs. The northern part brings the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island State Park.

 Desert mesas, hoodoos, slickrock, alpine forests insure no two stretches look the same.

Pro Tip: If you want to get some great video while you’re driving, get this dash cam. We love ours and use it even around home, you never know what you might see when you’re driving.

Nevada: Desert Highways, Ghost Towns & Outdoor Adventures

Nevada is wildly underrated for road trips.

Yes, Las Vegas is here, but so are Red Rock Canyon, Hoover Dam, and Lake Mead. Drive north on the Free-Range Art Highway for roadside art and ghost towns. Cruise the Loneliest Road in America (Highway 50) or the Extraterrestrial Highway for pure open-road vibes.

And the Great Basin Highway? It’s an outdoor lover’s dream.

 We may be a little biased since we live here but Nevada will never let you down with options for great road trips.

Arizona: Desert Wonders & Iconic Southwest Drives

Arizona road trips come with fiery sunsets and massive landscapes.

The Grand Canyon is obvious but driving through the Painted Desert, Antelope Canyon or Monument Valley reveals colors and formations that seem to shift with every mile.

For a more remote adventure, the drive to Canyon de Chelly offers a glimpse into Navajo history and heritage.

Sedona’s red rocks, the Sonoran Desert and Route 66 just add more fun and solitude.

This state mixes desert solitude with cultural history and dramatic natural beauty in a way few others can. It’s one of our favorite states for road trips.

New Mexico: Enchanted Desert & Cultural Routes

New Mexico feels like a living painting.

Drive the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway near Taos brings mountain views and historic villages.  Cruising the Turquoise Trail between Albuquerque and Santa Fe brings art-filled towns, adobe architectures, and history.

 Explore White Sands National Park’s surreal dunes and Roswell’s extra-terrestrial history.

Add Route 66 nostalgia and Pueblo heritage, and every mile tells a story. Another of our favs.

Texas: Big Roads & Bigger Landscapes

Texas doesn’t do small.

Explore Hill Country vineyards and river towns like Fredericksburg. Head west to Big Bend National Park for desert canyons and Rio Grande’s dramatic views.

The Gulf Coast adds another dimension, with beach towns like Corpus Christi and Galveston providing laid-back escapes.

In Texas, road trips feel expansive and bold – just like the state itself.

Tennessee: Mountains, Music & Southern Charm

Tennessee mixes culture with scenery.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park features winding routes like Newfound Gap Road, where misty peaks and waterfalls create a serene backdrop.

The Natchez Trace Parkway, stretching from Nashville to Mississippi, adds history and southern charm to the journey

Add Nashville’s honky-tonks and Memphis blues stops, and you’ve got a road trip with rhythm.

Florida: Overseas Highway & Gulf Coast Escapes

Florida brings tropical road trip energy.

Drive the Overseas Highway from Miami to Key West – one of the most famous drives in the world, connecting islands with sweeping ocean views.

The Gulf Coast offers a slower pace, with white sand beaches and charming towns like Sarasota and Naples. In northern Florida, routes through Ocala National Forest and historic St. Augustine offer a different kind of beauty.

Sun, ocean views, and palm-lined highways make Florida feel like vacation mode from mile one.

North Carolina: Mountains to Coast in One Trip

North Carolina gives you two road trips in one.

Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway for Appalachian overlooks and waterfalls. Then head east to the Outer Banks Scenic Byway for lighthouses and barrier island views.

Few states offer this much variety in one itinerary.

Maine: Coastal Lighthouses & Acadia Views

Maine invites you to slow down.

Park Loop Road in Acadia National Park combines ocean cliffs and mountain views in one compact drive. U.S. Route 1 winds through lobster towns, harbors, and classic New England charm.

It’s nostalgic, rugged, and scenic all at once.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning on camping, check out Campspot.com. They provide some great campground ideas and make booking really easy.

Alaska: Untamed & Unforgettable

Alaska is next-level road tripping.

The Seward Highway from Anchorage to Seward is one of the most scenic routes in North America, with glaciers, fjords, and amazing scenery.

Denali Highway and Dalton Highway offer remote, rugged drives through unspoiled wilderness and breathtaking scenery.

Wildlife sightings aren’t rare, they’re expected.

Hawaii: Tropical Scenic Drives

Hawaii proves road trips aren’t just about distance, they’re about experience.

On Maui, the Road to Hana winds through rainforests, waterfalls, and ocean cliffs, offering one of the most famous drives in the world.

The Big Island’s Saddle Road starts at the coast and ends at a volcano showing the stark contrasts in its landscape. Oahu’s coastal routes, like the Kamehameha Highway, showcase turquoise waters and tropical beauty. Every island offers its own version of paradise.

Windows down. Ocean breeze. Paradise unlocked. Bucket list worthy.

Final Thoughts: The Best Road Trips Start with the Right State

You can plan a road trip almost anywhere in America, but these states make it unforgettable. Whether you want mountain passes, coastal highways, desert solitude, or classic Americana, there’s a route waiting. If you need some help planning a road trip, check out roadtrippers.com. They give ideas for places to eat, stay and places of interest. Use code BTR5QTP to save $5.

Pick your scenery. Pack the snacks. Cue the playlist. The open road is calling.

We love sharing tips and information we learn along the way to help you plan your next trip. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.

The post The 17 Best States for an Epic U.S. Road Trip -Scenic Drives You’ll Never Forget appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

If you believe road trips are about the journey, not just the destination, these scenic byways deliver.

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!

Northeast Scenic Byways

Kancamagus Highway – New Hampshire

Stretching 34 miles through White Mountain National Forest, the Kancamagus Highway packs a lot into a short drive. Scenic pullouts line rivers and waterfalls, offering easy access to swimming holes, smooth rock shelves, and shaded picnic spots.

Popular stops like Lower Falls and Sabbaday Falls feature parking, restrooms, and short walks, making them perfect for spontaneous stops. In fall, these pullouts double as prime leaf-peeping locations with safe places to pull over and capture the color show.

Mid-Atlantic & Southern Scenic Byways

Skyline Drive – Virginia

Skyline Drive winds 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park and includes more than 70 overlooks. Frequent pullouts make it easy to stop for layered mountain views, wildlife sightings, and peaceful moments above the Shenandoah Valley.

Many overlooks feature stone walls and benches, encouraging longer breaks without needing to hike. The evenly spaced viewpoints make this drive feel relaxed and intentional.

Blue Ridge Parkway – Virginia & North Carolina

Often called “America’s Favorite Drive,” the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway includes over 200 designated overlooks. Many pullouts connect to short trails, historic landmarks, or grassy picnic areas.

Stops like Mabry Mill and Craggy Gardens offer restrooms, interpretive signage, and scenic walking paths. These are ideal for travelers who want meaningful stops without committing to long hikes.

Pro Tip: If you want to get good pictures of distant vistas, consider getting Digital Binoculars to get those great shots!

Natchez Trace Parkway – Mississippi to Tennessee

This 444-mile historic parkway blends scenery with storytelling. Pullouts lead to Native American burial mounds, early travel routes, and quiet forest clearings tied to America’s past.

Low speed limits and flat terrain make frequent stops easy and stress-free, turning history into a natural part of the drive.

Midwest Scenic Byways

Great River Road – Minnesota & Wisconsin

Following the Mississippi River, this scenic byway features pullouts near river overlooks, locks, and wildlife refuges. These stops are perfect for watching barges, spotting waterfowls, and enjoying ever-changing river views.

Many pullouts include picnic tables and grassy areas, making them great for longer breaks, especially when boats pass through the locks.

Pro Tip: Bring a cooler with you on all of your road trips so you don’t have to pay higher prices on water or soda. Plus, you can grab a drink when you want it and not have to wait until you can stop. We like this soft sided cooler from Maelstrom. It’s plenty big enough for us.

Southeast Scenic Byways

Overseas Highway – Florida Keys

Running about 113 miles from mainland Florida to Key West, the Overseas Highway is famous for its bridges and turquoise water. Pullouts provide shoreline access, fishing spots, and wide-open ocean views.

Near the Seven Mile Bridge, spacious pullouts offer uninterrupted vistas where travelers often linger to watch marine life or enjoy the breeze.

Southwest Scenic Byways

Red Rock Scenic Byway – Arizona

Near Sedona, this short but striking byway features frequent pullouts with jaw-dropping views of red sandstone formations. Many stops connect to short, family-friendly trails.

The dramatic colors and rock shapes make this a perfect drive for travelers who want big scenery without big hikes.

Utah Scenic Byway 12- Utah

Route 12 spans 123 miles between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef, offering constant visual contrast of forests, slickrock, cliffs, and open desert.

Pullouts near Boulder Mountain and Calf Creek provide shade, trail access, and sweeping views. Elevation changes and cooler mountain air encourage frequent stops along the way.

Rocky Mountain Scenic Byways

Trail Ridge Road – Colorado

Crossing Rocky Mountain National Park, Trail Ridge Road climbs above 12,000 feet. Pullouts are designed for safe stops while adjusting to altitude and weather.

The Alpine Visitor Center offers restrooms, exhibits, and short paved walks, but even the smaller pullouts often turn into extended stops thanks to tundra views, elk sightings, and lingering snowbanks.

Million Dollar Highway – Colorado

This dramatic stretch of U.S. Route 550 winds through steep terrain and historic mining country. Designated pullouts provide stable footing and panoramic valley views.

Nearby towns like Ouray and Silverton make it easy to pair scenic stops with food, fuel, and exploration.

Northern Rockies & Montana Scenic Byways

Beartooth Highway – Montana & Wyoming

Reaching nearly 11,000 feet, Beartooth Highway includes pullouts near alpine lakes and exposed tundra. These stops invite travelers to explore snowbanks, spot marmots, and experience high-altitude landscapes up close.

Wide spacing between pullouts allows for frequent breaks on this winding, scenic route.

Going-to-the-Sun Road – Montana

This 50-mile road through Glacier National Park is lined with pullouts near waterfalls, cliffs, and wildlife corridors. Logan Pass acts as a central hub with parking, visitor services, and paved paths.

Many smaller pullouts offer incredible alpine views without requiring strenuous hiking.

Pacific Northwest Scenic Byways

Historic Columbia River Highway – Oregon

Designed specifically for sightseeing, this historic route features stone-built overlooks that frame waterfalls, cliffs, and river bends.

Stops near Multnomah Falls and Horsetail Falls feel more like mini parks, complete with benches, trails, and thoughtful viewpoints.

Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway – Oregon

Near Bend, this 66-mile loop passes forests, lava fields, and crystal-clear lakes. Pullouts often sit directly beside the water, making them ideal for picnics and casual exploration.

Mount Hood Scenic Byway – Oregon

This 105-mile loop circles Mount Hood with pullouts near rivers, forests, and snow-capped peaks. Stops at Trillium Lake and Timberline Lodge include restrooms and walking paths, encouraging longer visits.

California Scenic Byways

Pacific Coast Highway – California

Along Big Sur and other coastal sections, the Pacific Coast Highway offers frequent pullouts overlooking cliffs, beaches, and rugged shoreline.

Many stops include beach access or flat walking areas, making it easy to explore tide pools, watch waves, or enjoy an impromptu picnic with ocean views.

Alaska Scenic Byways

Seward Highway – Alaska

Stretching 127 miles along Turnagain Arm, the Seward Highway features wide gravel pullouts perfect for watching dramatic tidal shifts.

During certain seasons, travelers may even spot beluga whales from shore. Interpretive signs help explain the area’s unique tidal patterns and wildlife.

Final Thoughts

One of the greatest joys of a road trip is stopping when something catches your eye. These scenic byways were built with that idea in mind, whether for safety, scenery, or storytelling. The pullouts aren’t just places to stretch your legs; they’re part of the adventure.

Slow down, take time to stop, and let the road surprise you. That’s what great road trips are all about.

The post Epic American Roads Where the Stops Are Just as Good as the Drive appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

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.

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.

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 – 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.

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.

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 (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

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