5 Must-See Scenic Highways in the US: The Road Trip Guide

Go, hit the road now. When you have your car, a road trip is a very worthwhile and meaningful thing to do. Road trips are not only a simple adventure but also a bath for the soul. Let you feel the world again and experience the wonders of travel and life.

As you travel the United States, from rainforests to mountain peaks, there are countless places to visit that will make you forget about the worries of modern life.

Today, we've compiled five places you need to put on your road trip bucket list.

Pacific Coast Highway (California)

California’s Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as State Route 1, is one of the most famous coastal drives in the world. Stretching over 650 miles from Dana Point in Southern California to Leggett in Northern California, the PCH offers some of the most spectacular ocean views and coastal landscapes you’ll find anywhere.

The drive along the PCH takes you through some of California’s most iconic destinations, including the beaches of Malibu, the cliffs of Big Sur, the charming towns of Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the vibrant city of San Francisco. Each stretch of the highway offers its unique beauty, from the rugged cliffs and crashing waves of Big Sur to the sandy beaches and palm trees of Southern California.

One of the highlights of the PCH is the Bixby Creek Bridge, an architectural marvel that offers stunning views of the coastline. Other must-see stops include Hearst Castle in San Simeon, the coastal redwoods in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, and the lively boardwalk in Santa Cruz. The PCH is more than just a road; it’s a journey through the heart of California’s coastal culture, offering endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Town recommendations

• Monterey: famous for its beautiful bay, Monterey Bay Aquarium and historical sites.

• Carmel-by-the-Sea: a charming town known for its art galleries, restaurants and beaches.

• Santa Barbara: known as the "American Riviera", famous for its Spanish-style architecture, vineyards and beaches.

Vista Points

• Big Sur: cliffs, wave-beaten coastline and magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean, Bixby Creek Bridge is the iconic attraction here.

• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: There is a chance to see sea lions, seals and sea otters, and the scenery is beautiful.

• Hearst Castle: A magnificent castle built on the top of a mountain, surrounded by beautiful gardens and expansive views.

The best trip time: Spring or Fall

Why: Enjoy pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists during this time of year, avoiding the peak crowds of summer and the rains of winter. Enjoy spectacular ocean views during both seasons and see wildflowers in bloom in the spring.

Route 66 (Illinois to California)

Route 66, often referred to as the Will Rogers Highway, the Main Street of America, or the Mother Road, is perhaps the most iconic road trip in the United States. Established in 1926, Route 66 was one of the first highways in the U.S. highway system, stretching over 2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. Although much of the original route has been replaced by interstates, the historic road still draws thousands of travelers each year.

Driving along Route 66 is like taking a journey back in time. The route passes through a diverse cross-section of American landscapes, including the cornfields of Illinois, the rolling hills of Missouri, the plains of Oklahoma, the deserts of New Mexico and Arizona, and finally the sunny beaches of California. Along the way, you'll encounter vintage diners, retro motels, old gas stations, and quirky roadside attractions that have become symbols of the road trip culture.

Highlights of the Route 66 experience include visiting the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, exploring the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, and witnessing the stunning Grand Canyon in Arizona. The trip offers a nostalgic glimpse into America’s past and is perfect for those who love history and classic Americana.

Town recommendations

• Flagstaff: A historic mountain town, the gateway to the Grand Canyon.

• Albuquerque: Famous for its culture, balloon festival, and old town historic district.

• Santa Monica: The end of Route 66, with the famous Santa Monica Pier and wide beaches.

Vista Points

• Cadillac Ranch: A row of car art installations buried in the desert, a landmark attraction on Route 66.

• Petrified Forest National Park: Unique fossil forest and colorful desert landscape.

• Oatman: An old gold rush town, famous for wild donkeys roaming the streets and western style.

The best trip time: Spring or Fall

Why: The mild temperatures in the spring and fall make for great long drives. Summers can be hot in the Midwest and Southwest.

Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)

Going-to-the-Sun Road, located in Glacier National Park, Montana, is one of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the United States. This 50-mile road cuts through the heart of the park, offering unparalleled views of the Rocky Mountains, glacial lakes, and alpine meadows.

As you begin your journey, the road ascends from the lower valleys, weaving through dense forests and alongside crystal-clear streams. Here, the landscape opens up to reveal sweeping views of the rugged mountain peaks and deep valleys below. Fields of wildflowers carpet the meadows in the summer, while snow lingers on the higher slopes even into July.

Wildlife sightings are common, with mountain goats and bighorn sheep often seen grazing near the road. Every twist and turn of Going-to-the-Sun Road reveals a new and awe-inspiring landscape, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Town recommendations

• West Glacier: As the western entrance to Glacier National Park, it offers a variety of outdoor activities and beautiful natural landscapes.

• Whitefish: A charming ski resort, suitable for all seasons, especially for skiing in winter and outdoor adventures in summer.

Vista Points

• Logan Pass: The highest point on this road, you can enjoy magnificent mountain views and wildflowers, and have the opportunity to see wildlife.

• Lake McDonald: The largest lake in Glacier National Park, the water is like a mirror, reflecting the surrounding mountains.

The best trip time: Summer

Why: Late summer is the best time to visit the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which is generally open only in the summer because of heavy snow in the winter that can cause the road to close. In the summer, you can enjoy magnificent mountain scenery and abundant wildlife.

Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia and North Carolina)

The Blue Ridge Parkway, often dubbed "America’s Favorite Scenic Drive," is a 469-mile stretch of road that winds through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. This drive is renowned for its stunning vistas, vibrant fall foliage, and access to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the eastern United States.

The parkway offers a peaceful and serene driving experience, with no commercial traffic allowed, and a speed limit of 45 mph that encourages drivers to take their time and enjoy the scenery. As you drive along the parkway, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of rolling mountains, lush forests, and picturesque valleys. The road also provides access to numerous overlooks, picnic spots, and campgrounds, making it ideal for leisurely stops along the way.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Blue Ridge Parkway is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. It’s also a haven for plant enthusiasts, with over 1,600 species of plants, including a wide range of wildflowers, trees, and shrubs. Whether you’re a nature lover, a hiker, or simply someone who enjoys a scenic drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-visit road trip destination.

Town recommendations

• Asheville: Known for its bohemian culture, art, music scene, and Biltmore Estate (the largest private residence in the United States).

• Roanoke: A town rich in culture, art, and history. It is an important stop on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Vista Points

• Mabry Mill: A well-preserved historic mill with picturesque scenery, a favorite for photography enthusiasts.

• Linville Falls: Magnificent waterfall views and multiple hiking trails.

• Grandfather Mountain: Experience the suspension bridge and 360-degree panoramic views.

The best trip time: Fall

Why: The Blue Ridge Parkway in the fall is known for its gorgeous fall foliage, which makes for stunning scenery along the way. In addition, the wildflowers in the spring make for beautiful scenery, making both seasons perfect for a visit.

Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)

If you’re looking for a road trip that offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and unique geological formations, Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 is the perfect choice. This 123-mile route runs through the heart of southern Utah, connecting two of the state’s most stunning national parks: Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef.

Scenic Byway 12 has been designated an All-American Road, a distinction given to only the most scenic and historically significant roads in the country. The drive takes you through a landscape of red rock canyons, towering cliffs, and vast desert vistas. Along the way, you’ll pass by the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, a region known for its dramatic rock formations, hidden slot canyons, and ancient petroglyphs.

In addition to its natural beauty, Scenic Byway 12 offers access to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and off-roading. The road itself is an adventure, with its winding curves, steep grades, and panoramic views that make every mile a visual feast. Whether you’re exploring the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, hiking to the natural arches in Capitol Reef, or simply taking in the views from one of the many overlooks, Scenic Byway 12 is a road trip that promises both awe and adventure.

Town recommendations

• Boulder: A quiet town with spectacular natural attractions such as the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument nearby.

• Torrey: Close to Capitol Reef National Park, it is a great base for exploring the area

Vista Points

• Bryce Canyon National Park: Famous for its orange-red columns and magnificent sunrise and sunset views.

• Capitol Reef National Park: Known for its unique geological structures and historical sites.

• Escalante Petrified Forest State Park: You can see the fossil forest and the beautiful Escalante Canyons.

The best trip time: Spring and Fall

Why: The relatively mild weather during these two seasons makes for a great drive through desert and canyon areas, avoiding the summer heat. Fall also offers a chance to see beautiful fall scenery.

Get Out There!

As you travel these scenic highways, experience the colorful natural landscapes of the United States. Each route is filled with unique natural beauty and cultural beauty.

Are you ready, pack your bags and start our next adventure!