The Longest Scenic Drive in Every State: Your Ultimate Road Trip Guide
Heading out on a classic road trip? Ready to see the best sights in every state, one epic drive at a time? Here’s your go-to list of the longest scenic drives across all 50 states. These roads promise far more than hours behind the wheel—they chart a course through some of the nation’s most jaw-dropping scenery, historic sites, and hidden gems. Whether you love mountains, coastlines, forests, or desert, there’s a road here you’ll want on your bucket list!
If you’re a fan of picturesque routes or searching for travel inspiration, this guide gives you a taste of the best each state has to offer. Fill up on gas, grab a favorite snack, and get ready. Here comes your new favorite way to explore!
Alabama: Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway
Winding for about 80 miles through northeast Alabama, the Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway leads through lush forests and valleys. You’ll pass charming small towns, mountain vistas, and wildflower meadows. It’s perfect for travelers who crave a relaxed, authentic southern road trip. In spring, flowering dogwoods and redbuds line the way!
Alaska: Seward Highway
Spend 127 miles on the Seward Highway, stretching from Anchorage to Seward. This drive pairs Cook Inlet views with snow-capped peaks and wildlife sightings galore. Pro tip: keep an eye out for beluga whales and bald eagles. This is true Alaskan wilderness that’s easy to explore from your car.
Arizona: Route 66
Hit a wildly impressive stretch of legendary Route 66 in Arizona. It covers just over 300 miles and showcases classic Americana, cool diners, and quirky roadside attractions. Seligman and Kingman are must-stop towns packed with history. For a taste of vintage travel, there’s nowhere better.
Arkansas: Scenic 7 Byway
Drive north-south across Arkansas on the Scenic 7 Byway for 290 miles of hills, forests, and Ozark beauty. You’ll take in spectacular views and photo-ready pull-offs. Pack a picnic and make time for the side trails—this region is known for its waterfalls!
California: Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1)
All 655 miles of the iconic Pacific Coast Highway are pure California gold. From San Diego to the redwoods, you’ll hug rugged cliffs, see historic lighthouses, and watch dramatic waves crash below. Plan some stops in Big Sur and San Simeon for highlights you won’t forget.
Colorado: San Juan Skyway
The 233-mile San Juan Skyway forms a loop through the wild beauty of southwest Colorado. Jagged mountains, alpine lakes, and mining towns give each mile its own wow factor. Autumn brings fields of golden aspens—this is as magical as a drive gets.
Connecticut: Merritt Parkway
This 37-mile route may be short but it’s packed with 1930s charm. The Merritt Parkway features scenic forested stretches and elegant bridges. No trucks allowed, so the drive feels relaxed and easy.
Delaware: Coastal Heritage Greenway
Delaware’s Coastal Heritage Greenway covers 90 miles of shoreline, state parks, and wildlife refuges. Spot birds, explore sandy beaches, and catch sea breezes as you cruise the state from top to bottom.
Florida: A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway
The A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway stretches for more than 72 miles along Florida’s Atlantic coast. Think palm-lined beaches, charming small towns, and a cooling ocean breeze. Don’t skip a stop in St. Augustine for a taste of old-world history.
Georgia: Lookout Mountain Parkway
Explore nearly 93 miles from Georgia to Alabama on the Lookout Mountain Parkway. This scenic route is known for wildflowers, waterfalls, and sweeping vistas that will fill your camera roll.
Hawaii: Hana Highway
The Hana Highway on Maui is 64 miles of rainforests, coastal cliffs, and hairpin turns. Waterfalls, bamboo forests, and black sand beaches make every stop a stunner. Bring a sense of adventure—and a little patience for the twists!
Idaho: Salmon River Scenic Byway
Take the 161-mile Salmon River Scenic Byway from Stanley to Salmon. You’ll roll beside sparkling rivers, dramatic canyons, and forested mountains, all while soaking in that fresh mountain air.
Illinois: Great River Road
The Great River Road covers about 550 miles in Illinois, tracing the mighty Mississippi and its river towns. There are history stops, bluff-top lookouts, and plenty of pie-worthy diners along the way.
Indiana: Ohio River Scenic Byway
For 302 miles across southern Indiana, the Ohio River Scenic Byway brings river views, state parks, and historic main streets. You’ll spot lush forests and limestone cliffs framing the landscape.
Iowa: Loess Hills National Scenic Byway
Iowa’s Loess Hills National Scenic Byway runs 220 miles along a rare geological formation of windblown hills. The drive features unique prairie views, wildflowers, and peaceful small towns.
Kansas: Flint Hills National Scenic Byway
Drive 47 miles along the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway to see the last tallgrass prairie in North America. The open sky and rolling fields create a calming scene that’s classically Kansas.
Kentucky: Country Music Highway (U.S. 23)
The Country Music Highway in eastern Kentucky stretches nearly 144 miles and celebrates the roots of bluegrass and country music. Interpretive signs and local museums along the way tell a toe-tapping story.
Louisiana: Great River Road
Cruise the Great River Road from Baton Rouge through plantation country and marshlands. The bayou views, Spanish moss, and southern hospitality make this a soulful Louisiana route.
Maine: Old Canada Road Scenic Byway
The Old Canada Road Scenic Byway covers about 78 miles between Solon and the Canadian border. Forests, lakes, and rivers make this drive a tranquil spot for leaf peeping in fall.
Maryland: Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway
Maryland’s Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway runs about 85 miles through maritime villages and wetlands. You’ll spot lighthouses, old oaks, and plenty of spots to grab fresh seafood.
Massachusetts: Mohawk Trail
Explore 69 miles of historic beauty on the Mohawk Trail through the Berkshires. Scenic overlooks, covered bridges, and forests glowing with fall color make this an East Coast favorite.
Michigan: US-2 (Upper Peninsula)
Michigan’s US-2 stretches about 300 miles from St. Ignace to Ironwood, hugging Lake Michigan’s northern shore. Dense forests, sand dunes, and sweeping lake views offer a classic Midwest adventure. Don’t miss scenic historic highways and cultural landmarks for even more road trip inspiration.
Minnesota: North Shore Scenic Drive (Highway 61)
Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive on Hwy 61 covers 154 miles alongside Lake Superior. Waterfalls, rocky coastline, state parks, and small towns make every mile memorable. This is one of the best drives for fall colors and local eateries.
Mississippi: Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway cruises for 444 miles from Natchez to Nashville. Native American history, Civil War battlefields, and rich forests line the way. The speed limit is low so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy it all.
Missouri: Great River Road
Across Missouri, the Great River Road carries you past limestone bluffs, river towns, and wildlife-rich reserves. Mark Twain’s hometown of Hannibal is just one of many stops.
Montana: Beartooth Highway
The Beartooth Highway, running 68 miles from Red Lodge to Yellowstone, packs epic scenery into each mile. Zigzagging switchbacks and alpine plateaus draw summer drivers and fall color fans.
Nebraska: Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway
Take 272 miles through the prairie on the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway. Rolling sand dunes, wetlands, and rural charm dominate the landscape.
Nevada: Great Basin Highway (US-93)
Nevada’s Great Basin Highway stretches 356 miles from Las Vegas to the state’s northern edge. Red rock canyons, ghost towns, and endless desert scenery make this a wild west ride.
New Hampshire: Kancamagus Highway
Drive 34 miles over the Kancamagus Highway. Known for crazy autumn colors, it slices through the White Mountains for unbeatable mountain views.
New Jersey: Palisades Interstate Parkway
Cruise 42 miles on the Palisades Interstate Parkway along the Hudson River with grand city views, tall cliffs, and plenty of spots to pull over and picnic.
New Mexico: El Camino Real National Scenic Byway
New Mexico’s El Camino Real National Scenic Byway covers 276 miles of desert valleys, ancient pueblos, and the Rio Grande. This is a drive for fans of open sky and wide-open spaces.
New York: Adirondack Trail
Spend 188 miles on the Adirondack Trail for lakes, mountain peaks, and deep forests. Outdoor adventure spots and tiny historic towns dot this classic state route.
North Carolina: Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway covers 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Expect wildflowers in spring, tunnel after tunnel of fall color, and plenty of overlooks.
North Dakota: Sakakawea Scenic Byway
Cruise 41 miles on the Sakakawea Scenic Byway along the Missouri River, with prairie landscapes and Lewis and Clark history all around.
Ohio: Ohio River Scenic Byway
270 miles of the Ohio River Scenic Byway will bring you through covered bridges, historic river towns, and rolling hills.
Oklahoma: Talimena Scenic Drive
The Talimena Scenic Drive covers 54 scenic miles over the Ouachita Mountains. Visit in fall for a festival of color.
Oregon: West Cascades Scenic Byway
Adventure down 220 miles on the West Cascades Scenic Byway for ancient forests, roaring rivers, and photo-worthy waterfalls. Pack your hiking shoes!
Pennsylvania: Route 6
Pennsylvania’s Route 6 (400 miles) is a cross-state corridor of rolling hills, quaint towns, and the Pennsylvania Wilds. There’s no shortage of good stops.
Rhode Island: Ocean Drive
Just 10 miles long, Ocean Drive in Newport hugs the coast with views of Atlantic surf and historic mansions all around.
South Carolina: Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway
The Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway (SC-11) runs for 130 miles along the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are dozens of nature stops and beautiful orchards en route.
South Dakota: Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway
From granite spires to tunnels and lakes, the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway captures 70 miles of the Black Hills’ best spots.
Tennessee: Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway covers 444 miles through Tennessee’s forests, fields, and historical markers.
Texas: Texas Hill Country Trail
The Texas Hill Country Trail runs about 314 miles of wildflowers, small towns, and rocky outcrops. Spring is the best season for bluebonnets and vibrant colors.
Utah: Scenic Byway 12
Travel 124 miles through red rock wonders along Scenic Byway 12. Bryce Canyon, Grand Staircase-Escalante, and Capitol Reef almost steal the show. Almost.
Vermont: Route 100
Vermont’s Route 100 cruises 216 miles through the state’s Green Mountains and past postcard-perfect villages.
Virginia: Blue Ridge Parkway
Continue down the Blue Ridge Parkway into Virginia, past wildflower meadows and lush forests. Every viewpoint brings new beauty.
Washington: Cascade Loop
The 440-mile Cascade Loop weaves mountains, farmland, and water views with stops for local fruit and craft brews.
West Virginia: Highland Scenic Highway
Head 43 miles over the Highland Scenic Highway for mountain views, open meadows, and quiet forests. Pack binoculars—this is prime birdwatching country.
Wisconsin: Great River Road
In Wisconsin, the Great River Road shadows the Mississippi for about 250 miles, with farmhouse bakeries and river bluffs on tap.
Wyoming: Centennial Scenic Byway
Complete your 50-state journey with 163 miles on the Centennial Scenic Byway through mountain passes, pronghorn herds, and big-sky country.
Ready to pick your next trip? Every state has a scenic drive that can surprise even the most seasoned traveler. Whether you crave wild mountains, quiet lakes, rambling prairies, or wildflower lanes, steering into one of these byways puts you right where adventure lives. If you’re in Minnesota, don’t miss the North Shore scenic drive along Hwy 61—that’s a personal favorite!
Pack some snacks, bring your favorite playlist, and hit the road for a journey you’ll remember for a lifetime. If you want more inspiration, check out these springtime scenic drives to try and start planning your own legendary road trip today. Safe driving and happy trails!
