25 Scenic Byways in the U.S. Designated for Their Stunning Views

If you’re anything like me, you know there’s magic in the open road. America’s scenic byways aren’t just highways; they’re jaw-dropping routes wrapped in history, natural beauty, and a healthy dose of “wow, pull over!” moments. These stretches give you mountain vistas, wildflower meadows, and ocean breezes you’ll never forget. Here’s your friendly tour of 25 show-stopping scenic byways—each earning its place thanks to unforgettable views and heaps of adventure.

Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia and North Carolina)

Sometimes called “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway delivers rolling Appalachian peaks as far as the eye can see. Every season brings a new personality—from spring wildflowers to fiery autumn leaves. Don’t miss spots like Grandfather Mountain and the charming trail towns dotting the way.

Pacific Coast Highway (California)

Cruise along cliffs above breaking waves. The Pacific Coast Highway (also known as Highway 1) connects classic beach towns and the dramatic Big Sur coastline. Each turn brings sea mist and redwoods, plus top stops like Bixby Bridge.

Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)

Winding through Glacier National Park, Going-to-the-Sun Road puts you in the heart of alpine beauty. You’ll see glacier-carved valleys, wild goats, trickling streams, and snow-capped peaks. Pro tip: Sunrise feels like your own private show here.

Beartooth Highway (Montana and Wyoming)

At over 10,000 feet, the Beartooth Highway is pure mountain drama. Tight switchbacks carry you through alpine tundra, past sparkling lakes, and up to surreal, windy vistas near Yellowstone’s northeast entrance.

Route 66 (Illinois to California)

Route 66 is legendary for good reason. It rolls out wide-open heartland fields, quirky roadside attractions, kitschy diners, and those iconic, endless skies. You’re driving history here.

Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)

Follow the Mississippi River south along the Great River Road. One minute it’s bluffs and bald eagles, the next it’s sleepy river towns. This byway is a ribbon tying together the country’s heart and soul.

A quick note: If Minnesota is on your itinerary, check out unique views along the Mississippi River for city stops and hidden overlooks!

Skyline Drive (Virginia)

Pack a picnic—the 105-mile Skyline Drive runs the length of Shenandoah National Park. You’ll spot wild deer, look down over the Shenandoah Valley, and soak up every twist and turn through hardwood forests.

The Alaska Highway (Alaska and the Yukon)

Ready for wide-open wild? The Alaska Highway (also called the Alcan) delivers glacier views, mountain lakes, and maybe a lone moose or two. The sense of adventure is strong as you pass through untamed wilderness.

Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire)

Get ready for New England charm. The “Kanc” is famous for autumn foliage, covered bridges, and peaceful river bends, all tucked between the White Mountains.

San Juan Skyway (Colorado)

The San Juan Skyway connects former mining towns with switchbacks, turning aspens, and views of the rugged San Juan Mountains. Don’t skip the Million Dollar Highway section—it’s the best part.

Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway (Oregon)

Roll past towering waterfalls, volcanic cliffs, and endless wildflowers along the Columbia River Gorge. There are dozens of photo-worthy stops, and the sense of scale will blow you away.

Overseas Highway (Florida Keys)

The Overseas Highway is a miracle of engineering, hopping from Key Largo to Key West over a chain of islands and sweeping blue water. Windows down, sunglasses on—it’s the definition of a tropical drive.

Route 100 (Vermont)

Vermont’s Route 100 is a parade of covered bridges, sleepy villages, and pure maple syrup. Wind along forested slopes and past fields that glow green in summer and gold in the fall.

Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway (South Dakota)

The heart of the Black Hills, this byway takes you through granite tunnels, by rock spires, and close to Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park, where bison herds roam wild.

The Cascade Loop (Washington)

This 440-mile loop through Washington connects mountain passes, apple orchards, and turquoise lakes, including famed Lake Chelan. Each bend brings new mountain or river scenes.

To dig deeper into all these byways and see official maps, try the Federal Highway Administration America’s Byways guide.

Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee)

Trace thousands of years of history along this gentle, tree-lined byway. It’s famous for Civil War sites, wildflowers, and cypress swamps.

Trail Ridge Road (Colorado)

Trail Ridge Road cruises above treeline in Rocky Mountain National Park. At over 12,000 feet, the air is crisp and the vistas are pure mountain magic.

Hana Highway (Maui, Hawaii)

The Hana Highway takes you through lush rainforests, past thundering waterfalls, and along ragged ocean cliffs. Expect hairpin turns and lots of stops for photos.

Loess Hills Scenic Byway (Iowa)

Roll through hills shaped by wind and time, with prairies, wildflowers, and beautiful ridges along this quiet Midwest wonder.

Lake Superior Circle Tour (Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Ontario)

If unbeatable water views are your style, circle Lake Superior for lighthouses, cliffs, waterfalls, and beach after beach. Watch for eagles and crashing waves!

Love lakes and road trips? Minnesota’s top summer lakes has a list you won’t want to miss.

Historic Columbia River Highway (Oregon)

America’s first scenic highway, this byway finds the best views in the Columbia Gorge—from Multnomah Falls to crown-point vistas over the river.

Seward Highway (Alaska)

The Seward Highway is pure Alaska: glaciers, fjords, mountains, and wildlife. Take it slow, because you’ll stop often for those pull-off views and photo ops.

High Road to Taos (New Mexico)

Climb from sagebrush desert to cool mountain forests. The High Road to Taos weaves through adobe villages and artists’ enclaves—history and scenery in every mile.

See more New Mexico byways through the state’s official byway roundup.

Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)

Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 is one of the most amazing highways in the Southwest. Red rock canyons, sandstone arches, and views over Bryce Canyon and Grand Staircase-Escalante give this route a wild, almost otherworldly vibe.

Park Loop Road (Acadia National Park, Maine)

Loop around Acadia to find rocky beaches, crashing surf, and views from Cadillac Mountain. Early morning is best—you’ll catch sunrise over the island-dotted Atlantic.

Wrapping Up: Your Scenic Road Trip Awaits

So there you have it—25 scenic byways worthy of every travel bucket list! Each road offers a new adventure, some local flavor, and unforgettable views. From the misty bluffs above the Mississippi to red rock deserts in Utah and the sun-splashed curves of California’s coast, these drives bring you face to face with America’s beauty. If you’re planning your next adventure or dreaming from the couch, let these routes inspire your journey.

Want more? Check out the official Scenic Byways information portal for more routes, tips, and maps. Happy road tripping!