20 Most Scenic Highways in the USA – The Ultimate Driving Bucket List
🛣️ 20 Most Scenic Highways in the USA – The Ultimate Driving Bucket List
By Carros AZ USA – Your Road Begins Here
🚗 Why Scenic Roads Matter
In the USA, the road is more than just a way to get somewhere — it’s part of the experience. Every curve, overlook, tunnel, and stretch of open highway can be a moment to remember. At Carros AZ USA, we believe the right road can turn any trip into an adventure.
Whether you drive a convertible, ride a Harley, or pilot a Class A motorhome, these scenic highways offer breathtaking landscapes, quirky roadside stops, and stories worth sharing.
We’ve driven coast to coast — now we’re giving you 20 of the most beautiful highways in America, complete with tips, best stops, nearby fuel stations, and why each one belongs on your travel bucket list.
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🌄 Top 20 Most Scenic Roads in the USA
| # | Highway Name | States | What Makes It Special |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1) | California | Dramatic cliffs, ocean views, Big Sur, Bixby Bridge. |
| 2 | Blue Ridge Parkway | VA, NC | Appalachian views, fall foliage, mountain tunnels. |
| 3 | Going-to-the-Sun Road | Montana | Glacier National Park, alpine lakes, snow-capped peaks. |
| 4 | Overseas Highway (US-1) | Florida Keys | Ocean on both sides, island hopping, 7-Mile Bridge. |
| 5 | Route 66 (Historic) | IL to CA | Classic Americana, diners, ghost towns, vintage charm. |
| 6 | Beartooth Highway | MT, WY | Hairpin turns, 10,000 ft elevation, wild open spaces. |
| 7 | Highway 12 (Scenic Byway) | Utah | Red rock canyons, Bryce Canyon, Grand Staircase. |
| 8 | Million Dollar Highway (US-550) | Colorado | Steep cliffs, mining towns, San Juan Mountains. |
| 9 | Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway | Oregon | Waterfalls, cliffs, wildflowers, and Mount Hood views. |
| 10 | Natchez Trace Parkway | MS to TN | Rolling hills, historical markers, peaceful drives. |
| 11 | Great River Road | MN to LA | Runs along the Mississippi River through 10 states. |
| 12 | Kancamagus Highway | New Hampshire | New England fall colors, covered bridges, forest roads. |
| 13 | Highway 101 (Oregon Coast) | Oregon | Sea stacks, dunes, charming coastal towns. |
| 14 | Skyline Drive | Virginia | Shenandoah National Park, ridge-top views, wildlife. |
| 15 | Hana Highway | Hawaii (Maui) | Rainforest, waterfalls, 600 curves, pure paradise. |
| 16 | Tioga Pass (CA-120) | California | High Sierra views, gateway to Yosemite. |
| 17 | Lake Shore Drive | Illinois | Chicago skyline meets Lake Michigan, urban + scenic. |
| 18 | San Juan Skyway | Colorado | Loop through Durango, Telluride, and Ouray. |
| 19 | Mount Washington Auto Road | New Hampshire | Climb to Northeast’s highest peak, dramatic panoramas. |
| 20 | Cherohala Skyway | NC, TN | Motorcycle favorite, curves, forest, and elevation gains. |
🧭 Expert Road Trip Tips
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Fuel Up Often: Many scenic roads go through remote areas. Carry extra fuel or plan gas stops with our previous guide.
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Check Weather: Some routes (like Beartooth or Tioga) close in winter or get snow even in late spring.
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Cell Signal Drops: Bring offline maps or physical road atlases, especially in national parks.
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Watch for Wildlife: Deer, elk, and bears are common on high-elevation and forested roads.
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Pack Layers: Even summer drives can get chilly at high altitudes or coastal cliffs.
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🏕️ Must-See Stops & Experiences Along the Way
Each of these roads offers unique stops and small-town gems. A few examples:
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🍔 Big Sur Bakery on CA-1
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⛺ Julian Pie Company detour from San Diego’s mountain roads
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🚢 Ferry ride from Washington to Olympic Peninsula
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🛶 Floating the Mississippi along the Great River Road
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📸 Selfie at Cadillac Ranch on Route 66
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🌋 Haleakalā sunrise before or after driving Hana Highway
📍Driving the Dream: From Coast to Coast
Many of these roads connect naturally into larger road trip loops.
Some suggestions:
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Pacific Coast Loop: Start in Seattle → down Hwy 101 → CA-1 to Los Angeles.
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National Parks Circuit: Connect Utah’s Highway 12 → Million Dollar Hwy → up to Yellowstone via Beartooth.
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East Coast Fall Tour: Skyline Drive → Blue Ridge Parkway → Great Smoky Mountains.
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Southern Culture Drive: Natchez Trace → Mississippi Delta → Route 66 in Oklahoma.
🛞 Final Thoughts from Carros AZ USA
The roads may be paved with asphalt, but the memories made are pure gold.
At Carros AZ USA, we don’t just help you find the best car — we help you find where it should take you.
Each of these 20 scenic routes deserves a spot on your lifetime driving list. So whether you’re mapping out next summer’s trip or about to hit the road this weekend, let this guide inspire you to explore the most beautiful parts of America — one mile at a time.
🔗 You Might Also Like:
Top Gas Stations Along Scenic Routes in the USA
→ https://carrosazusa.com/scenic-gas-stops
Best Campgrounds Near Scenic Highways (RV & Tent Options)
→ https://carrosazusa.com/scenic-camping
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