The Most Breathtaking Road Trips You Need to Drive

Published at: 09-04-2026 By Menachem Kossowsky
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10 Scenic Road Trips Everyone Should Take

10 Best Scenic Road Trips in the U.S. for Outdoor Lovers
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If you’re itching to hit the open road and soak in some jaw-dropping views, the U.S. has no shortage of epic drives perfect for outdoor lovers. From winding coastal highways to rugged mountain passes, these road trips offer a mix of adventure, nature, and good vibes. Whether you’re a hiker, camper, or just love a killer sunset, pack your snacks, crank the tunes, and get ready for an unforgettable ride. Here’s our top 10 list to fuel your wanderlust!


1. Pacific Coast Highway, California

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California
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This iconic drive along Highway 1 from Monterey to Big Sur is pure magic. You’ve got rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and epic stops like McWay Falls. Last summer, I cruised this route with my buddies, and we legit stopped every 10 minutes to snap pics—totally worth the sore phone thumb!


2. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina & Virginia

2. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina & Virginia
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Stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, this chill drive serves up rolling hills, vibrant wildflowers, and killer hiking trails. It’s perfect for a laid-back weekend vibing with nature.


3. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

3. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
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Glacier National Park’s 50-mile stunner is a bucket-list drive. Towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and maybe a mountain goat or two make it unreal. Just don’t look down if you’re scared of heights!


4. Route 66, Illinois to California

4. Route 66, Illinois to California
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This classic cross-country jaunt is all about retro diners, quirky roadside stops, and wide-open desert. It’s less about speed and more about soaking in the old-school Americana vibes.


5. Hana Highway, Maui, Hawaii

5. Hana Highway, Maui, Hawaii
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This 64-mile tropical twist along Maui’s coast is packed with waterfalls, bamboo forests, and black sand beaches. It’s a slow roll, but every turn feels like a postcard—trust me, you’ll wanna linger.


6. Beartooth Highway, Montana & Wyoming

6. Beartooth Highway, Montana & Wyoming
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This 68-mile stretch to Yellowstone’s northeast entrance is a wild ride with hairpin turns and epic alpine views. It’s a bit hairy, but the payoff at 10,000 feet is straight-up glorious.


7. Overseas Highway, Florida

7. Overseas Highway, Florida
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Cruising 113 miles from Miami to Key West feels like driving on water. The turquoise ocean views and chill island vibes make it a perfec escape for beach lovers.


8. Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana

8. Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana
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Following the Mississippi River for 2,000 miles, this drive mixes small-town charm, lush forests, and epic bluffs. Pick a stretch and roll with it—every mile’s got character.


9. Utah’s Scenic Byway 12

9. Utah’s Scenic Byway 12
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This 123-mile gem weaves through red rock canyons, pine forests, and slickrock trails. It’s a rad mix of desert and mountain that’ll leave you stoked for adventure.


10. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

10. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
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This 70-mile drive along the Oregon-Washington border dishes up waterfalls, windy cliffs, and primo hiking spots. Multnomah Falls is a must-stop—bring a raincoat, it’s misty!


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