Few experiences compare to the freedom of hitting the open road, windows down, and endless landscapes stretching ahead of you.
The United States is blessed with some of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the world, perfect for outdoor lovers who want to pair adventure with natural beauty.
Whether you crave rugged mountain views, coastal highways, or desert vistas, these routes showcase the country’s diverse landscapes while offering countless opportunities to stop, hike, camp, or simply soak in the view.
Here are some of the best scenic drives and road trips across the USA tailored for nature enthusiasts.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California
For many, the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) defines the ultimate road trip experience.
Stretching along California’s rugged coastline, this drive offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and charming seaside towns.
Outdoor lovers will find countless opportunities to stop and explore, from hiking trails in Big Sur to tide pools in Point Lobos State Reserve.
Don’t miss iconic stops like Bixby Creek Bridge, McWay Falls, and the Monterey Bay coastline.
For camping, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park provides a perfect overnight stay surrounded by towering redwoods.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia & North Carolina
Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the Appalachian Highlands, offering stunning views of rolling hills, valleys, and dense forests.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of hiking trails along the way, including sections of the Appalachian Trail.
In fall, the parkway is ablaze with vibrant foliage, making it one of the most scenic seasonal drives in the country.
Stop at overlooks like Mabry Mill and Linn Cove Viaduct, and plan to camp at one of the parkway’s designated campgrounds for a full immersion into nature.
3. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
Located in Glacier National Park, the Going-to-the-Sun Road is a breathtaking 50-mile journey through one of America’s wildest landscapes.
The road itself is an engineering marvel, clinging to the cliffs as it winds past glaciers, alpine meadows, and waterfalls.
Outdoor lovers can enjoy short hikes to Logan Pass, Hidden Lake, or Avalanche Lake, where wildlife sightings are common.
Since the road is only open seasonally due to snow, plan your trip between late June and early September.
It’s an unforgettable drive that captures the raw beauty of Montana’s wilderness.
4. Route 66, The Great American Road Trip
No list of scenic drives would be complete without Route 66, often called the “Mother Road.”
While not a traditional outdoor escape, this historic highway passes through deserts, mountains, and prairies, giving outdoor enthusiasts access to some of the most unique landscapes in the U.S.
From the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona to the vast plains of Oklahoma, you’ll encounter plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring off the beaten path.
The nostalgia of roadside diners and vintage motels also adds charm to this legendary journey.
5. Overseas Highway, Florida Keys
If you’re looking for a road trip with ocean views at every turn, the Overseas Highway is a must.
Stretching 113 miles from Miami to Key West, this drive crosses a series of bridges over turquoise waters and coral reefs.
Outdoor lovers will enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing stops along the way, particularly in Bahia Honda State Park and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
End your journey in Key West, where you can catch a sunset at Mallory Square or take a boat trip to Dry Tortugas National Park for a unique outdoor adventure.
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6. The Great River Road, Along the Mississippi River
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River for over 3,000 miles through ten states, making it one of the most extensive scenic routes in the country.
For outdoor enthusiasts, this road offers access to wetlands, wildlife refuges, and charming river towns.
Popular stops include Effigy Mounds National Monument in Iowa and the scenic bluffs of Minnesota’s Lake Pepin. Cyclists, hikers, and birdwatchers will find plenty of activities along the way, making this route ideal for those who enjoy a mix of history and nature.
7. Beartooth Highway, Wyoming & Montana
Often overshadowed by Yellowstone National Park, the Beartooth Highway is a gem for outdoor lovers.
This high-altitude road climbs to nearly 11,000 feet, offering jaw-dropping alpine views, wildflower meadows, and crystal-clear lakes.
It’s a favorite for hiking, fishing, and photography, with numerous pullouts that provide access to trails and picnic spots.
Because of its elevation, the road is only open during the summer months, so plan your trip accordingly.
Pair this drive with a visit to Yellowstone for the ultimate mountain-and-wildlife adventure.
8. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
New England’s Kancamagus Highway is a short but unforgettable road trip through New Hampshire’s White Mountains.
Particularly popular in autumn, this drive showcases brilliant fall foliage, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks.
Outdoor lovers can stop for hikes to Sabbaday Falls, Champney Falls, or Mount Kancamagus itself.
Campgrounds along the route provide a chance to extend the trip, allowing travelers to enjoy starry nights and peaceful forest settings.
This drive is proof that even shorter scenic routes can deliver big outdoor experiences.
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9. Alaska’s Seward Highway
For the adventurous, the Seward Highway in Alaska is one of the most dramatic drives in the country.
Stretching from Anchorage to Seward, the route passes glaciers, fjords, and snow-capped peaks.
Outdoor lovers will enjoy wildlife spotting opportunities, with chances to see moose, eagles, and even beluga whales along Turnagain Arm.
Hiking options abound, including the Exit Glacier trail in Kenai Fjords National Park.
The combination of rugged wilderness and pristine landscapes makes this drive perfect for those seeking a truly wild road trip.
Scenic drives in the USA aren’t just about getting from point A to point B—they’re about experiencing the journey itself.
For outdoor lovers, these road trips provide endless opportunities to connect with nature, whether it’s hiking among glaciers, camping under starlit skies, or simply pulling over to admire a sweeping view.
From the coasts of California to the mountains of Montana and the tropical waters of Florida, these drives highlight the beauty and diversity of America’s great outdoors.
All you need is a reliable vehicle, a sense of adventure, and a love for the open road.
