The U.S. is home to some of the most stunning mountain roads in the world. These drives offer breathtaking views, towering peaks, and a sense of adventure. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the fall foliage, experience snow-capped mountains, or simply drive through winding roads, these scenic drives will take you on a memorable journey. Here are some of the best mountain scenic drives in the U.S.
1. Beartooth Highway, Montana and Wyoming
Beartooth Highway is one of the most famous mountain scenic drives in the U.S. It stretches for 68 miles and connects Montana and Wyoming. The road takes you through the Beartooth Mountains, offering views of jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and expansive valleys. The highest point on the road is over 10,000 feet, giving you panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. Beartooth Highway is open from late spring to early fall, so it’s the perfect drive for a summer or autumn getaway.
2. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
Located in Glacier National Park, Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-see for any mountain road lover. The drive is 50 miles long and takes you through towering mountains, along crystal-clear lakes, and across breathtaking alpine meadows. As you ascend, you’ll pass Logan Pass, the highest point on the road, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the park’s rugged peaks and glaciers. The road is open from late June to mid-September, depending on weather conditions, making it a great summer adventure.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Stretching for 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, this road offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. The parkway is especially popular in the fall when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. You’ll also find plenty of hiking trails and overlooks along the route, making it a perfect combination of driving and outdoor adventure.
4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
The Rocky Mountain National Park offers some of the best mountain drives in the U.S. The Trail Ridge Road, in particular, is a highlight. This road is one of the highest paved roads in North America, reaching over 12,000 feet at its peak. The drive offers sweeping views of snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including elk and bighorn sheep, as you explore the park. The road is typically open from late June to mid-September.
5. Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), California
While the Pacific Coast Highway is known for its stunning coastline, it also takes you through some spectacular mountain scenery. Traveling along the California coast, the road winds through the Santa Lucia Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean below. Stop at the famous Bixby Creek Bridge for an iconic photo opportunity, or take a detour to visit the beautiful Big Sur. Whether you’re driving through rugged cliffs or enjoying the coastal mountains, this route offers an unforgettable experience.
6. The Million Dollar Highway, Colorado
The Million Dollar Highway is a famous mountain road in southwestern Colorado. Part of U.S. Highway 550, this 25-mile stretch takes you through the San Juan Mountains. Known for its steep drop-offs, sharp turns, and dramatic landscapes, the Million Dollar Highway offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The route gets its name from the legend that it cost a million dollars a mile to build, although it’s also said to refer to the area’s rich mining history. This drive is best experienced in late spring or early fall.
7. Mount Evans Scenic Byway, Colorado
The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is the highest paved road in North America, reaching an altitude of 14,130 feet at the summit of Mount Evans. This 28-mile road takes you through alpine forests, past lakes, and to the very top of the mountain. At the summit, you’ll have an unbeatable view of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. You may even see mountain goats or bighorn sheep along the way. The road is open from late May to mid-September, depending on weather conditions.
8. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers some of the best mountain drives in the U.S., with scenic routes like the Newfound Gap Road and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. The Newfound Gap Road takes you through some of the park’s most beautiful spots, including breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, misty valleys, and vibrant forests. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a one-way loop that takes you through old-growth forests and past historic cabins. These drives offer the perfect mix of mountain views and rich Appalachian culture.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer winding roads through alpine forests or panoramic views of towering peaks, these mountain scenic drives offer something for every traveler. From the rugged Beartooth Highway to the breathtaking Going-to-the-Sun Road, these routes showcase the diverse beauty of the U.S. mountains. So, grab your map, pack your car, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on these top mountain scenic drives in the U.S.
