When it comes to scenic road trips, many people gravitate toward popular routes. However, several hidden scenic byways across the globe offer breathtaking views, cultural treasures, and peaceful escapes from the crowds. These lesser-known roads provide the opportunity to explore nature’s beauty and experience local history in a more tranquil setting. If you’re craving an unforgettable road trip, here are some hidden scenic byways that deserve more attention.
The Beartooth Highway, Montana & Wyoming, USA
The Beartooth Highway, stretching 68 miles between Montana and Wyoming. It offers one of the most awe-inspiring drives in the United States. This highway takes travelers through the Beartooth Mountains, where they can enjoy panoramic views of rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and vast valleys. The route features over 20 mountain passes, making it a thrilling journey for those who appreciate adventure and nature.
Along the way, the highway leads to the northeastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Visitors can experience geysers, hot springs, and a wide variety of wildlife. Though this scenic byway is often overshadowed by more famous American routes, it is an unmissable gem for anyone looking to explore remote beauty.
The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
The Wild Atlantic Way runs for over 1,500 miles along Ireland’s western coast. While some parts of it are popular, many sections remain quiet, offering hidden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming villages.
This route reveals the rugged beauty of Ireland’s coastline, from County Donegal to County Cork. Along the way, travelers can visit the quaint towns of Doolin and Kinsale, walk along empty beaches, and spot wildlife such as puffins and dolphins. For those looking to experience Ireland authentically and peacefully, the Wild Atlantic Way is a must.
The Icefields Parkway, Alberta, Canada
The Icefields Parkway is one of Canada’s most iconic scenic drives, connecting Banff and Jasper National Parks in Alberta. Spanning 143 miles, this highway features incredible views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and towering mountain peaks.
Travelers will pass by natural wonders like the Athabasca Glacier, Bow Lake, and Peyto Lake. The remote beauty of this drive provides a peaceful experience, offering visitors the chance to stop and enjoy nature without the crowds that often flock to more popular parks.
The Highwood Pass, Alberta, Canada
The Highwood Pass in Alberta, often overlooked in favor of Banff National Park, offers one of Canada’s highest paved roads, with an elevation of over 7,200 feet. This scenic road trips winds through the southern Canadian Rockies, showcasing alpine meadows, wildflower fields, and crystal-clear mountain streams.
The road is typically closed in winter, but during summer months, it provides a tranquil drive through Canada’s most remote landscapes. The Highwood Pass is perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty far from crowded tourist spots.
The Karoo, South Africa
Located in the heart of South Africa, the Karoo is a semi-desert region with some of the country’s most scenic and peaceful drives. The Karoo Route passes through historic towns like Prince Albert and Beaufort West, offering an authentic look at South Africa’s rural heartland.
The drive across the Karoo takes you over vast stretches of flat land, broken only by rugged mountain ranges and lush valleys. Travelers can spot wildlife, including springbok and ostriches, and discover unique geological formations. With its remote beauty and calm atmosphere, the Karoo offers a perfect road trip for those looking to escape the crowds.
The Jotunheimen National Park, Norway
Norway’s Jotunheimen National Park is home to some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes. With towering mountains, clear lakes, and deep valleys, this area remains one of Norway’s best-kept secrets. The scenic route through the park offers views of glaciers, waterfalls, and Galdhøpiggen, the highest peak in Northern Europe.
Driving through Jotunheimen is a memorable experience, especially during the winter months when snow dusts the landscape. While other Norwegian destinations like the Lofoten Islands and the fjords attract more visitors. Jotunheimen provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to connect with nature.
Conclusion
Hidden scenic road trips offer a refreshing alternative to the more crowded routes that most tourists flock to. From the rugged mountains of the Beartooth Highway to the serene beauty of South Africa’s Karoo. These lesser-known roads provide unforgettable views and experiences. Add one of these hidden gems to your road trip itinerary, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning landscapes and a sense of peaceful adventure.
