Your Guide to Scenic Drives of America

The United States of America has some hidden gems. If you are thinking of going on a road trip this summer, be sure to check out the most spectacular roads, and the views they have to offer, along the way.

In this blog posts, we will try to cover each breathtaking road, state by state in alphabetical order, to provide you with the needed knowledge before you leave on your big trip.

To make it easier for you here's a list of the states we covered so you can jump to a section you're interested in.

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

We’ll start with the states starting with the letter A:

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas

ALABAMA

When it comes to the Yellowhammer State, there are three beautiful roads you must visit during your trip.

view of Gulf Shores State Park

• The Coastal Connection:

Alabama’s Coastal Connection follows the Gulf Coast of the state. This highway connects the sea with the land and many entertaining spots await your arrival along it. From museums to wildlife refuge areas, everyone can find what they are interested in.

One of the highlights of this road, apart from the tasty breakfast spots, is the Dauphin Island Audubon Sanctuary, a bird sanctuary that is the rest spot of more than 400 bird species. The sanctuary is globally recognized as an important bird migration and bird viewing location.

view of Talladega National Forest

• Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway

The Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway passes the Appalachian mountains as it runs from north to south through the state, without spectacular views along the way.

You can visit Lookout Mountain and Little River Canyon when driving through the Appalachian Mountains. These sites offer remarkable views and a relaxing atmosphere throughout the year. You can also go for a hike in the Talladega National Forest. One of the last roadless areas in this national forest is the Dugger Mountain Wilderness Area, which is the home of numerous endangered plants.

overview of State Road 9

• State Road 9

The State Road 9 reaches across the state and it is one of Alabama’s longest highways. This road starts near the Florida border and reaches across the state, through Montgomery. This road provides a scenic drive throughout Alabama.

ALASKA

As the northernmost state in the country, Alaska is known for its mainly chilly weather and its wildlife and forestry. The state is overflowing with breathtaking forests, trails, mountains and the list just goes on. However, this state is also the home of some remarkable scenic roads that will leave you in awe.

Richardson Highway near Worthington Glacier

• Richardson Highway

This spectacular highway allows for to travel from Valdez to Fairbanks, a 368 mile stretch of road. To pass the highway from start to finish will take you about 8 hours, but the exceptionally unique Alaskan scenery is worth every minute of the drive.

On this highway near Valdez, you are sure to pass Keystone Canyon, which is rich in waterfalls and history. Richardson Highway is also the home of the Worthington Glacier and the Gulkana Glacier. You can visit the largest national park in the US, Wrangell St. Elias or make your childhood dream come true and see where Santa lives in North Pole, Alaska.

view of Beluga Point

• Seward Highway

This 125 mile long highway extends from Seward to Anchorage and it is named as one of the Most Scenic Driven in the World by Life magazine in 2012. With the rest of the Alaskan roads, this highway portrays the beauties of Alaska from a front row seat.

Along the Seward highway you have to pass through Bear Creek, by Bear Lake, and enter Chugach National Forest. Near Anchorage is Beluga Point, a rocky outpost that was named after the white beluga whales that can be seen from here.

cabins at Independence Mine State Historical Park

• Hatcher Pass Scenic Drive (aka Fishhook Road)

The Hatcher Pass Scenic Drive is 60 mile seasonal highway pass, which is located between the Alaskan towns of Willow and Palmer and it stretches for 60 miles. This is a local gem as is provide idyllic hikes, exceptional views and the opportunity to see rare wildlife and wildflowers along the trail.

One of the breathtaking views is provided by the Talkeetna Mountains, which is a mountain range in Alaska. The Hatcher Pass Scenic Drive is a season pass through the southwestern corner of the mountain range, which offers phenomenal views of the glaciers and mountain peaks.

ARIZONA

The state which is the home of the Grand Canyon definitely offers some noteworthy scenic drives. While Arizona is mainly known for its desert, it still provides exceptional sights on its highways.

view of natural water slide at Slide Rock State Park

• State Route 89A

Starting north from Prescott the State Route 89A is an almost 84 mile stretch of road which leads to Flagstaff. It was officially named SR 89A in the early 1990s. One of the interesting stops along this state road is the Slide Rock State Park, in Oak Creek Canyon. This park was originally an apple orchard which has turned into a recreational park people wanting to cool down and enjoy the superb views.

road marking on Route 66

• Route 66

As the song goes “Get your kicks on Route 66”. This State Road was named an All-American Road in 2009 for the first-rate driving experience it offers. Not only is it packed full of attractions, big and small, it provides spectacular views along its stretch.

This route offers access to the Grand Canyon Caverns, a major tourist attraction. It also runs along the Petrified Forest National Park, which offers beautiful hiking trails for the adventurous heart. Another breathtaking sight is the Kaibab Plateau, a 1.152 square mile national forest. Along the route you can make frequent stops at old-West style towns, which offer an excellent alternative to sleeping in the car. Furthermore, this historic route is littered with various roadside attractions.

view of Canyon Lake

• The Apache Trail

The Apache Trail is located near Phoenix Arizona which is a mainly unpaved road through the Superstition Mountains. After the paved part ends, the Apache Trail proves to be a challenging drive, even though the dirt road is in much better condition than it used to be.

The first two stops along the Apache Trail are Canyon Lake and Tortilla Flat, a town with 6 residents. After a boat ride or hike by Canyon Lake, it only takes an hour car ride to reach Tortilla flat where you can recharge your batteries and stomach. After you reach the dirt road part of the trail, at milepost 222 you will find a scenic parking lot with hiking trails, which is the start of the hardest part of the trail, Fish Creek Hill.

ARKANSAS

Arkansas is the home of large forested areas, mountain ranges and large rivers. It’s only fitting that the most scenic roads in the state run through the Boston and Ozark Mountains.

Pig Trail in autumn

• Pig Trail Scenic Byway

The Pig Trail Scenic Byway is a 19 mile road which stretches through the forested Boston Mountain region. On this byway, you have the opportunity to drive under dense foliage and see spectacular plants and flowers along the way.

The forest and various plants offer different scenes throughout the year. Spring, summer and autumn ensure that your jaw will drop in awe when driving along this byway.

That’s it for now. Keep an eye out for our next installment for even more scenic drives!

Following with the installment of the Scenic Drives of America we will be talking about the states that start with the letters C and D:

• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware

CALIFORNIA

It goes without saying that California has, not only spectacular sights, but a huge variety of forms of entertainment. Even its roads. The state is rich in scenic drives thanks to its breathtaking views both inland and by the ocean.

view of coast from Hearst Castle

• Pacific Coast Highway

This All-American road connects San Francisco with Los Angeles and is one of the most well-travelled roads in the region because of it. It provides numerous attractions on the Californian coast and ensures a spectacular view throughout the drive.

Among the many attractions on this road, you can find the Bixby Creek Bridge on the Big Sur coast, which is the most photographed bridge in the state. This bridge is not in use however, as its retro construction doesn’t meet modern standards. Another attraction you need to stop at is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a small beach city full of museums, a large library and fairytale cottages. You can also stop at Hearst Castle along the way, a National and California Historic Landmark which is the home of spectacular sculptures, antiquities, painting and is rich in architecture.

ca

view of Lake Tahoe

• Route 395

The US Route 395 runs for 557 miles from Hesperia to north California, while briefly crossing into Nevada. The road stretches through a large portion of the state and crosses some interesting places along the way.

The route passes by Yosemite National Park and Death Valley National Park. These parks provide exceptional views of nature and hiking trips for those with adventurous souls. On this road you can also visit Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America, and Mono Lake, a saline lake with excellent recreational opportunities. Lastly, you can visit Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the contiguous US, on your trip.

• Sierra Vista Scenic Byway

The Sierra Vista Scenic Byway is a route through Sierra National forest and it is an 83 mile route with remarkable views. On the route, you can see unique granite formations, such as the Arch Rock and the Globe Rock. You can also visit the Bull Buck Tree which is one of the oldest trees in the world.

These are just a few sights to check off your list, but the route also provides recreational activities. Among other things, camping and fishing are provided at Mammoth Pool or you can take a hike up to Fresno Dome to see a 360 degree view of the landscape.

COLORADO

With encompassing the southern Rocky Mountains, Colorado offers superb views and attractions along its roads and taking a road trip in this state will not leave a sour taste in your mouth.

view of San Juan Skyway’s path through the mountains

• San Juan Skyway

The Colorado Scenic Byway or San Juan Skyway crosses through the spectacular San Juan Mountains with numerous historical towns along the way. The 235 mile long stretch of road is nicknamed the Million Dollar Highway from Silverton to Ouray.

Along the way, you will be able to stop at historic mining towns at your leisure. The road takes you through the mountains with stops at summits and guarantee exceptional views of the mountains and the landscape.

view of Independence Pass

• Independence Pass

The Independence Pass is a seasonal pass through the Rocky Mountains. It is closed in winter for safety reasons. This pass connects Aspen with the Twin Lakes and provides beautiful views of the mountain range. However, keep in mind, that some vehicle restrictions apply.

The Pass offers a wide range of recreational activities, from cycling and hiking trails to camping spots. On the Aspen side of the pass, you can enjoy numerous camping grounds which are fee-based. This side also features the Independence Ghost Town, an abandoned mining town. At the Pass’ midway point you can see the Continental Divide, with its scenic overlook near the pass.

view of Estes Park

• Trail Ridge Road

The Trail Ridge Road is the 48 mile long highway of the Rocky Mountain National Park, which connects Estes Park with the Grand Lake. The road, due to the mountain range it passes, has steep elevations that may prove difficult for some vehicles to handle.

However, the road offers spectacular views of the mountains, especially with the quickly changing scenery due to the land’s elevation.

CONNECTICUT

New England’s Connecticut is a state that blends it rural and urban landscapes together to provide exceptional travel destination. With its large cities and small towns the state’s landscape creates a sharp contrast.

view of Campbell Falls in Norfolk

• Litchfield Hills Loop

The Litchfield Hills Loop is a stretch of road from Litchfield to Norfolk that hides some gems along the way. The Loop cuts through the Litchfield Hill area, which is littered with historical towns and gives you a front row seat to the beautiful New England scenery. One of the towns you will pass is Falls Village, which takes you back in time to the 19th century with its churches, railroad and houses.

Connecticut River in autumn

• Route 196

From Haddam to East Hampton, Route 196 runs for 5.38 miles. This route might be small, but it gives you an inside to the beauty of the land in the lower Connecticut River valley.

DELAWARE

Compared to other states, the First State might be smaller, but it has its charms. With the Delaware River, the sandy beaches of the Delaware Bay and its breathtaking coastal scenery, Delaware ensures that every road trip will leave you in awe.

Beach at Cape Henlopen, Lewes

• Delaware Bayshore Byway

The Delaware Bayshore Byway is an about 100-mile-long road that runs from New Castle to Lewes. This road follows the Delaware River and Bay Estuary along its path. It provides an exceptional experience with the preserved coastal marshland with its breathtaking views, historical small towns and recreational activities.

The Byway cuts through almost the entire state. This makes it a long stretch that is the perfect spot to view the wildlife and flora of the region. Furthermore, the road is an important area with bird migratory flyway zones and resting area, delighting birdwatchers and people interested in the activity.

view of bridge over Brandywine River

• Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway

The Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway is a 12.25 mile stretch of road, which runs through the Brandywine valley. The road runs from Wilmington to the Pennsylvania state line and it portrays more than 300 years of American industrial history.

Going forward with of our Scenic Drives of America, we will cover many miles from Florida to Hawaii, as the next four state are:

• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho

FLORIDA

From the many roads in the Sunshine state, we have selected two to talk to you about today. As Florida is bordered by bodies of water on three sides, it provides exceptional coastal roads to drive on, which are perfect for road trips.

West Palm Beach skyline

• A1A Florida Ste Rd

The A1A Florida Ste Rd is a north-south road which connects Key West with Fernandina Beach. It stretches along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean and provides spectacular views of the ocean and the state’s shores.

From the beaches that you will pass, we recommend you to stop at Daytona Beach and West Palm Beach. Both of them offer exceptional recreational activities, great shops and excellent food. The road crosses Fort Lauderdale, which is a popular with tourists. If you love nature and history, you must make time for the Timucuan Historic Preserve and the Kingsley Plantation.

view of Seven Mile Bridge

• Overseas Highway

The Overseas Highway is a 113 mile long highway that runs through the Florida Keys. This road provides spectacular views of the waters and ensures an enjoyable driving experience.

Along the way, you can stop to rest at the unique Jules' Undersea Lodge in Key Largo. This guest house, where you can stay between 3-24 hours. It is really underwater. You must scuba dive to enter it and it offers a unique view and contact with the underwater life surrounding the key.

GEORGIA

Georgia has a long and unique history and its roads hide gems along the way. Its scenic roads manage to combine history with nature to provide you with a breathtaking experience on your road trip.

walkway through Okefenokee swamp

• Woodpecker Trail Highway 121

The Woodpecker Trail Highway 121 runs from Augusta to Folkston for 620 miles. You have numerous attractions that might be of interest to you along the road. You can visit some of the notable cities that the highway passes, such as Augusta, Folkston, Metter or Waynesboro.

The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is also located by this highway. The Refuge combines history with nature as it has some notable historic sites (Chesser Island Homestead) you can visit at your leisure. All in all, the Refuge has 5 entrances which provide different attractions, recreational activities and a unique look into the wildlife and fauna of the region.

view from Yonah Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest

• Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway

The Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway is a 54 mile stretch of road that is located in the rural communities near Dalton and Chatsworth. This byway ensures the task of preserving the area’s natural beauty with its cultural, recreational and natural treasures.

The road starts from the historic Prater's Mill, which can be your first stop as well. Cohutta Mountains and the Cohutta Fish Hatchery provide a special look into the aquatic ecology and the preservation of aquaculture. These mountains are also the home of the Fort Mountain State Park. The Chattahoochee National Forest, in northern Georgia, can also be accessed from this byway, and it is a must-visit sight for the adventurous heart.

HAWAII

Going a bit farther west to Hawaii, we have counted three roads you must visit for a road trip over these spectacular islands. As the state consists of islands, it doesn’t offer the long, sweeping highways (as some other states do), but its unique flora and fauna and breathtaking views will guarantee an exceptional journey.

Wailua Falls Maui

• Hana Highway

The Hana Highway on Maui stretches from Kahului to Hana. The highway runs on the island’s shore, on mountains and elevations which will leave you in awe at every turn… and there are a lot of twists and turns. This is a 64.4 mile road with numerous turns and bridges that require careful driving.

A must-see stop along the highway is the Wailua Falls. It is an easily accessible 80 foot waterfall with a parking lot and a swimming pond.

view of Waipio Valley

• Hamakua Coast Drive

The Hamakua Coast Drive is a breathtaking road running from Hilo to Honoka’a. The drive leads you into the fairytale-like scenery of the islands. Along the drive, you will find numerous botanical gardens, lush valleys, tropical rainforests and waterfalls that create a spectacular view.

One of the largest botanical gardens is the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, on the Big Island. This is a non-profit botanical garden and nature preserve. You can also visit the Waipio Valley Lookout, located on the Hamakua coast, which gives a view of the historic valley of Waipio.

view of lava flows and Pu’u Huluhulu in Volcanoes National Park

• Mauna Loa Road

The Mauna Loa Road is a 17 mile long stretch which guides you up Mauna Loa and ends at the Mauna Loa Weather Observatory. You can take the drive, which has a steep elevation, to the observatory, or a hike trail to the summit. Both provide you with exceptional views of unique lava flows and a breathtaking view of the area.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the homes of two active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea. The area features a dramatic volcanic landscapes and unique and rare flora and fauna. The national park became a World Heritage Site in 1987.

IDAHO

Inland America is good at hiding gems along its roads. Idaho is no different. The three scenic roads we will talk about all offer exceptional drives for road trips with spectacular views, interesting attractions and excellent recreational activities.

view of Clearwater National Forest

• Northwest Passage Scenic Byway

The Northwest Passage Scenic Byway is the longest byway located in the state. It runs for 202 miles from Lewiston to the Idaho-Montana border. This stretch of road follows the route of Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery, as a result it has numerous historical sites. Apart from this, travelers can hike, fish, boat and take part in wildlife and heritage viewings.

The Nez Perce National Historical Park has its home by this road. It is a park with 38 sites located in several states and it encompasses the lands of the Native American Nez Perce people.

Mesa Falls

• Mesa Falls Scenic Byway

The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway starts from Ashton and leads in to the Targhee National Forest. This road will take you to the Henrys Fork’s two waterfalls that are Idaho’s only untouched waterfall. The Upper and Lower Mesa Falls offer a beautiful rest sport and view from the falls’ lookouts.

This area is also the home of the historic Bear Gulch Ski Area, the second ski resort ever opened in Idaho. Harriman State Park, also located near the byway. offers a wide range of recreational activities.

view of Sawtooth Mountains from the Sawtooth Scenic Byway

• Sawtooth Scenic Byway

The Sawtooth Scenic Byway is an almost 116 mile road connecting Shoshone with Stanley. The byway includes attractions such as the Sawtooth National Recreational Area, Redfish Lake and the Sun Valley Resort, guaranteeing everyone will find something they are interested in on this journey. It’s also worth mentioning that you can take a detour east from Shoshone and visit Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. This is a 1,117 square foot park encompassing lava fields, sagebrush steppe grasslands and the Great Rift.

Moving on we will take a look at the following four states:

• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas

ILLINOIS

From big city life to rural pastures, you can find it all in Illinois. The state managed to combine urban and agricultural landscapes thanks to its diverse economic base. In this state, we will talk about three major scenic roads.

beginning of Route 66

• Route 66

Route 66 runs from Chicago to St. Louis and it hides numerous interesting and unique attractions. Parts of the road are out of operation, but the route still offers exceptional views and a variety of attractions along its stretch.

The road has numerous “giants” on its course. However, if you decide to take a road trip on Route 66, be sure to visit the World's Largest Catsup Bottle, a 170 ft tall water tower designed in the shape of a catsup bottle.

Grafton Lighthouse on the Mississippi river

• Great River Road

The Great River Road runs along Illinois’ western state-line. It is a 550 mile long stretch of road offers breathtaking views and landscapes as is follows the Mississippi River from south to north.

Apart from the spectacular roads, you can take a rest at one of many vineyards located on the side of the road, thanks to Illinois’ rich winemaking tradition. Rock Island is also located by this route, making it easy for you to visit the largest island on the Mississippi River. Other interesting cities include Grafton, Galena and Moline.

view of Navy Pier and Lake Shore Drive

• Lake Shore Drive

The Lake Shore Drive is the expressway that runs through Chicago and along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. The road has a rich history and it provides exceptional views and an enjoyable driving experience, making it a perfect destination for your road trip.

INDIANA

Indiana has a long and rich history and its landscapes and scenery depicts it as well. The roads located in the state provide breathtaking views and interesting attractions to make your trip more enjoyable.

one of Parke County’s covered bridges

• Parke County

The roads running in Parke County provide exceptional views and portray the state’s rich history. Two Routes and five state highways pass through this county. This county has altogether 31 covered bridges and it’s nicknamed the Covered Bridge Capital of the World. In each October, the county hosts the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival.

If you wish to have a good night’s rest along your drive, book a room in the unique Old Jail Inn. The inn used to be the Parke County Sheriff’s office and jail turned into a bed and breakfast with the Drunk Tank Winery the only wine tasting bar in Parke County.

view of the bridge connecting Indiana and Kentucky across the Ohio River

• Ohio River Scenic Byway

The Ohio River Scenic Byway runs by the Ohio River through Indiana for 303 miles. It gives a glimpse into the history of southern Indiana, with its numerous historic buildings and sites, as it passes through the region.

Other attractions along the road include the Falls of Ohio State Park, part of the National Wildlife Conservation Area, which offers exceptional hiking trails. Through this road you can also visit the Angel Mounds State Historic Site in Evansville. This area was the home of a thriving Native American culture, dating back thousands of years.

IOWA

The Iowa landscape’s rolling hills, tallgrass prairies and savannas provide a beautiful drive through nature. For remarkable views and unforgettable memories take a road trip along the state’s spectacular scenic roads.

scenic farmland in Iowa

• Great River Road

Continuing from Illinois, the Great River Road continues to follow the Mississippi River from south to north. This 328-mile stretch of road provides exceptional views of the river and its surroundings and ensures a remarkable drive throughout the state.

Following the road, you will arrive to the Mount Hosmer Park, which is a bluff overlooking the city of Lansing. It provides a panoramic view of the river and the Black Hawk Bridge.

Cedar Bridge in Madison County

• Covered Bridge Scenic Byway

The views and landscapes that Covered Bridge Scenic Byway offers will remind you of iconic America. The rural scenes, the covered bridges in Madison County and the birthplace of John Wayne, make this road part of America’s scenic drives.

Madison County’s plains and rural life-style provide a remarkable experience. Furthermore, you can visit the Quilt Museum and the numerous quilt shops.

KANSAS

The state of Kansas has a varying landscape as it is located in the great central plain of the U.S., while its eastern part is rich with hills and forests. The roads leading through the state manage to portray this beautiful division across the scenery.

grasslands of Flint Hills

• Flint Hills National Scenic Byway

The Flint Hills National Scenic Byway cuts through tallgrass prairies of the state. This stretch of road runs for over 47 miles across the Flint Hill of Kansas, connecting Council Grove with Cassoday.

Visit the breathtaking landscapes of the Flint Hills, an ecoregion of the Great Plains. The Flint Hills are home to four tallgrass prairie preserves, offering beautiful views and an unforgettable experience. You can also stop at the Schrumpf Hill Scenic Overlook, which is located in Chase County and it is a scenic overlook located by the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway.

American Bison in the Maxwell Prairie Preserve

• Prairie Trail Scenic Byway

The Prairie Trail Scenic Byway is a 56-mile long road running through central and northern Kansas. The route offers an inside look into Swedish culture and the numerous small historic towns the road has to offer. The road manages to combine its remarkable scenery with its historic sites to offer a unique road trip experience.

Going forward we will take a look at the scenic roads of these four states:

• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland

KENTUCKY

The Bluegrass State has a diverse geographic scenery throughout its land. The state has a rich history and it has numerous historical attractions along its roads. The landscape offers spectacular views, making Kentucky an interesting state to drive through.

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park

• Lincoln Heritage National Scenic Highway

The Lincoln Heritage National Scenic Highway is a 72 mile long road, which is part of the US 31E and the US 150 highways. This road offers a look into history as it crosses six historical communities as it travels from Hodgenville to Danville. The road explores the landscapes of Abraham Lincoln’s youth, while also offering a beautiful look into the state’s natural beauty.

The birthplace of the 16th American President has become a historic site. The Sinking Springs land offers an interesting stop and a special look into the landscape that shaped the president’s life and upbringing with the farmland’s hiking trails. The Memorial Building was the first memorial dedicated to Lincoln in the country.

historic entrance to Mammoth Cave

• Duncan Hines Scenic Road

The Duncan Hines Scenic Road is an 80-mile road passing through rural Kentucky. The loop route begins and ends in Bowling Green. The road is famous for the landscape’s remarkable beauty as it passes through rural areas. It passes through the Mammoth Cave National Park and Smith’s Grove. The road offers various attractions along its stretch.

The road start from Bowling Green which was the home of Duncan Hines, the man behind the cake mix. The Mammoth Cave National Park is a must see for nature lovers. It is the home of the world’s largest case system which is part of the Green River valley and hilly country. Before the route reaches its end, it passes through Smith’s Grove, a small rural town with a unique charm.

view of the one lane Nada Tunnel

• Route 77

The Route 77 is a bit more than 14 miles long, which runs between Route 11 and Route 15 in the state of Kentucky. This route is passes through breathtaking wilderness, along enchanting rock formations and it is home to a mysterious one-lane tunnel. The Nada Tunnel was once a railway tunnel. This 900-foot long tunnel only has one lane. It is a gateway to Red River Gorge.

LOUISIANA

Louisiana is a state in the Deep South region of the country. The state is the home of spectacular marshlands, low swamps and beaches and barrier islands, which offer exceptional views and breathtaking sceneries for road trips.

alligator in Lake Martin

• Bayou Teche Byway

The Bayou Teche Byway is a 125-mile-long stretch of road running through southern Louisiana. This road gives a glimpse into the marshlands of the region. Apart from the beautiful scenery, the byway connects the two distinct cultures of the French Cajun and Anglo-Saxon.

Along the road, you can stop to enjoy Cajun cuisine. If you decide to travel this byway, be sure to take one of Cajun Jack's Swamp Tours, which gives you an inside look into the swamplands of the state. The road also has a large number of unique bed and breakfast motels, which complete the tour across the land.

Cajun crawfish boil

• Cajun Corridor Scenic Byway

The Cajun Corridor Scenic Byway is a 34 mile road that connects Delcambre with Gueydan. The byway has numerous stops that offer delicious Cajun food, as the area is good for crawfish and shrimp farming, which are also located by the road. The byway guarantees remarkable views with the coastal ridges and drained marshes it passes.

MAINE

Jumping northeast, lets take a look at one of the New England states next. Maine has a spectacular natural beauty with a rocky coastline, low mountains, dense forests and gorgeous waterways.

view from Cadillac Mountain

• Acadia All-American Road

The Acadia All-American Road is a looped road that runs through Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island from the mainland. This 40 mile stretch of road is best driven on from spring to fall, as it is not maintained in the winter. As the road goes into the National Park, you need to pay the entrance fee, but its breathtaking scenery is worth every penny.

The road passes through the Acadia National Park, which is a natural preserve of Mount Desert Island and some surrounding areas. The park’s entrance is at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center. The park also offers excellent recreational activities. It is also the home of Cadillac Mountain.

Angel Falls of Maine

• Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway

The Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway is located in midland Maine and it is a 52 mile long road. The byway runs along the Maine lakes, circling around Rangeley Lake, and the Appalachian Mountain ridge line. Both of these offer remarkable views and an exceptional experience.

The road not only provides you with breathtaking scenery, it also has numerous recreational activities that you can partake in. One such activities is a hiking trail that leads to the Angel Falls of Maine, a gorgeous waterfall. The area also provides a glimpse into the plant and wildlife of the area.

MARYLAND

As one of the Mid Atlantic states Maryland mostly borders the Chesapeake Bay. As a result, it offers special coastal views, while also having a variety of different landscapes. The state is perfect for a road trip thanks to its rich history and exceptional scenery.

view of the battlefield and monument at Antietam

• Historic National Road

TheHistoric National Road is the oldest road in the country. Its 170 mile stretch starts at Baltimore and cuts across Maryland until it reaches the Pennsylvania border. Apart from numerous historic sites, attractions, museums and the beautiful scenery, you can also visit and take a ride on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, which provides you with an additional experience.

view of the Washington Monument and Peabody Institute on Charles St

• Baltimore's Historic Charles Street

Baltimore's Historic Charles Street runs across the city for 12 miles. Along its stretch, apart from the Museum of Art and the Maryland Zoo, you can visit numerous historic sites. One such is the Johns Hopkins University. These are also a number of botanical gardens and historic mansions with highlight the trip, such as the Sherwood Gardens.

Moving on, we will take a look at the scenic roads of another four states. As we are reaching the halfway mark of our blog post, we will talk about the following states:

• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi

MASSACHUSETTS

Massachusetts is one of the New England states and despite its small size, the state is full of wonderful scenery. Not only is it the home of a spectacular landscape, but this state is also full of historic sites as it has a rich history. The state is full of scenic drives that take you on a historical tour along the coastal line and across the mountains.

one of the many lighthouses of Cape Cod

• The Old King's Highway

The Old King's Highway runs along the southern side of Cape Cod Bay. It combines nature with history as it provides spectacular views of the coast and the bay, while also taking you through numerous historic towns.

Across Cape Cod you can find numerous historic attractions that offer great recreational activities, such as the Cape Cod Canal bicycle paths. At the highway’s halfway point you can take a stop at Barnstable Harbor. The small towns offer a look into the past by keeping their old charm alive even today. The Historic Sandwich village and the Heritage Museum and Gardens guarantee your enjoyment.

Waconah falls in the Berkshires

• Jacob's Ladder Trail Scenic Byway

Jacob's Ladder Trail Scenic Byway is a 35-mile long part of US Route 20 which was designated as a scenic byway by the state. It runs from Russel to near Lenox, passing through altogether five towns. This road gives you a look into the untouched rural Massachusetts as it passes the Berkshire mountains. The Chester-Blandford State Forest offers excellent recreational activities that will allow you to stretch your legs after hours of driving.

MICHIGAN

From the Atlantic Ocean we will jump to the Great Lakes as Michigan is next in line on the list. This state provides you with breathtaking views and lake-side scenery as it has the longest freshwater shoreline among the 50 states.

Sleeping Bear Dunes overlook

• M-22

M-22 or Michigan Highway is a 117 mile long road along the Lake Michigan shoreline. It offers exceptional scenery as it follows the lakeshore along its stretch. The highway also passes through the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This park offers recreational activities and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan’s east side. It also has a historic aspect as it encompasses historical buildings.

New Buffalo harbor entrance

• Red Arrow Highway

Red Arrow Highway was named in honor of the veterans of the Red Arrow Division who fought in World War II. The highway runs between New Buffalo and Kalamazoo, following the Lake Michigan shoreline. The road offers numerous attractions for the adventurous heart as it passes by beautiful beaches, orchards and vineyards along the way, as well as some gorgeous towns, such as Union Pier or Harbert.

water lilies at Senery National Wildlife Refuge

• M-77

M-77 is located on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It gives a glimpse into the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula as it runs north of Lake Michigan. It passes the Seney National Wildlife Refuge, which is a managed wetland near the town of Seney. The Wildlife Refuge is the home of a large number of bird species, river otters, beavers, moose, black bears and wolves.

MINNESOTA

The state with the largest number of lakes also offers spectacular scenic roads perfect for road trips across its area. The western and southeastern lands of the state were mainly handed over to agriculture, yet it still guarantees beautiful views with its prairies and forests.

one of various Paul Bunyan statues you’re sure to see on your drive

• Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway

The Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway offers a unique look into Minnesota. It is a 54-mile road which offers various stops along the way. From recreational activities to historical town, this road passes along some exciting places.

Along the road you can stop to fish and boat on various lakes. The byway runs by lakes Gull, Pelican, Crosslake and the Whitefish Chain of lakes. For hiking and biking you can stop at the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, a part of the Minnesota State Park and Recreational Area system, that offers different trails for such activities.

view of the St. Croix river

• St. Croix Scenic Byway

The St. Croix Scenic Byway is a 124 mile long road that runs between Point Douglas to Sandstone. The road passes through the St. Croix River Valley. It offers breathtaking views and scenery throughout its stretch. The natural beauty of the region is built up of rugged rocks, cliffs, clear water lakes and dense woods.

view of one of Minnesota’s many lakes

• U.S. Highway 10

If you wish to traverse the entire state of Minnesota with your road trip, take a drive on U.S. Highway 10. This highway is a 275-mile-long road that cuts through nearly the entire state. Along the way, you can bask in the state’s natural beauty.

MISSISSIPPI

Mississippi is one of the southern states. It has a rich history and beautiful landscapes which guarantee an adventurous road trip. Most of the state is part of the East Gulf Coastal Plain with lowlands.

Dunleith Historic Inn in Natchez

• Great River Road

The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River throughout various states. This road provides remarkable views and sites throughout its stretch as it runs along the river. The road has numerous stops, break and breakfasts and diners that can liven up your road trip. It has some historic and military sites as well, that give a glimpse into the history of the state.

Going forward we will take a look at another four states and showcase the breathtaking roads they have to offer. The states are:

• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada

MISSOURI

West of the Mississippi River, surrounded by eight other states, lies Missouri a midwestern state with a spectacular scenery. The state was the birthplace of numerous famous people over the years, including Mark Twain. It offers a breathtaking view with its large rivers, rolling hills and the Northern Plain stretch into the state as well. All in all, this makes the state an interesting road trip destination.

view of Reed Springs Mill in Mark Twain National Forest

• Blue Buck Knob National Forest Scenic Byway

The Blue Buck Knob National Forest Scenic Byway is a 24 mile long stretch of road which cuts through the Ozark hills in the Mark Twain National Forest. The byway starts near Cabool and it offers beautiful scenery throughout its length. It offers versatile landscapes and different hiking trails for the adventurous heart.

The byway also passes Noblett Lake, located in the Mark Twain National Forest. The lake offers a number of recreational activities that are sure to stretch your legs after a long drive. The forest has both hiking trails and horseback riding tracks that take to on a tour of history across the forest.

Saint Louis skyline with its famous arch

• Route 66

Route 66 crosses the state from Saint Louis to Joplin. Across its length, the route offers numerous interesting stops with recreational activities and historic sites. Visit the Route 66 Red Rocker or stay a night at one of the unique motels located by the road to get a special road trip experience.

MONTANA

The home of the Yellowstone National Park, Montana offers a unique experience with its diverse landscape. From the western prairie terrains and badlands to the Rocky Mountains, the state makes for a breathtaking tourist destination.

view of Saint Mary Lake in Glacier National Park

• Going-to-the-Sun Road

The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a 50 mile long road that goes across the Glacier National Park. This road offers numerous stops along its stretch, including picnic areas, campgrounds, three of the Park’s visitor centers and food and lodging. However, the road is not open all year round, as the weather in the park’s area affects the driving conditions.

The road was designed to blend into the mountain scenery. It is a narrow road with hairpin turns that need your full driving attention at times, but it is all worth it! The road leads to you Logan Pass, which is the highest elevation that you can reach by car. The Pass provides a breathtaking view of the Reynolds and Clements Mountains. Along the road, you will most likely encounter the wildlife living in the area, such as mountain goats and bighorn sheep.

view from Beartooth Highway

• Beartooth Highway

The Beartooth Highway is an All-American road that connects Montana with Wyoming with its 68 mile length. It leads to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. This road showcases a diverse landscape, vegetation, and wildlife across its stretch. Driving along the highway enables you to witness the spectacular views Montana has to offer.

The road cuts through Yellowstone Country as it leads to the Park’s entrance and it take you to the highest elevation highway at the Northern Rockies.

NEBRASKA

Nebraska is considered to be both part of the Great Plains and Midwestern US. Its landscapes are composed of the Great Plains and the Dissected Till Plains. This means that the state’s scenery is divided between gently rolling hills and diverse land regions. Nebraska is considered as the state where the West begins.

view of Chimney Rock

• Highway 71

The Highway 71 is located in western Nebraska and it leads into Colorado. Before that, however, the road passes the Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area and Nature Center. The Center provides trails for hiking and mountain biking. It also has two stone shelters, which are perfect picnic areas. The Center also offers a closer look into the area’s plant and wildlife diversity and it has an excellent spot for bird watching at the observation decks overlooking North Platte Valley.

night time view at the Agate Fossil Beds

• Bridges to Buttes Highway

The Bridges to Buttes Highway is a 197 mile long road between the Wyoming border and Valentine. The road passes by the Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands. The National Forest is the home of the Pine Ridge National Recreation Area with offers camping, hiking and mountain biking trails, horseback riding and picnic areas. You can also stop at numerous locations to check out the prehistoric fossils found in Nebraska, such as at the Agate Fossil Beds National Monument.

NEVADA

The Silver State is the home of the largest part of the Great Basin, while also having parts of the Mojave Desert and the Sierra Nevada between its borders. This, along with the historic western sites, ensures the state’s unique scenery and offers a special experience along its roads.

view of Highway 50 on its way to the basin it passes through

• Highway 50

The Loneliest Road in America passes through large desert valleys and mountain ranges of the Great Basin, with scarce civilization. However, this offers the road’s exceptional scenery.

Apart from its remarkable landscapes, the highway has numerous historical sites. The ruins of the Pony Express stations lie along the road, with the best preserved one being the Sand Springs Station near the Sand Mountain. The road has a feel of the old west with its abandoned mines, saloons, and opera houses.

view of Route 375 near Area 51

• Extraterrestrial Highway

The Extraterrestrial Highway, originally State Route 375, is a 98 mile long road that cuts across desert terrains. The highway got its name from the reported UFO and alien activity on it as it runs near Nellis Air Force Range’s Area 51, the top secret government base. Along the highway, there are alien-themed attractions and diners that give the thrill-seeing road tripper a chill. You can stop in the small town of Rachel to recharge during your alien hunting adventure.

view of the Valley of Fire

• Valley of Fire Highway

The Valley of Fire Highway is the main road through the Valley of Fire State Park. It takes you into the heart of the Park and shows you a spectacular view of the surrounding land. The Scenic Loop Road branches off this highway, which takes you to Arch Rock and unique rock formation in the State Park.

Now, we talk about the hidden gem roads that the United States has to offer, and take a look at the following states:

• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Our first state today takes us to New England. New Hampshire is one of the smaller states, but its landscapes offer spectacular views throughout its land. The state is famous for its granite formations and quarries. The northern and central part of the state is the home of the White Mountain range, while the southern area has flatter lands which gives the state versatile scenery.

fall foliage along the Kancamungus Scenic Byway

• Kancamagus Scenic Byway

The Kancamagus Scenic Byway is a 35-mile-long scenic drive across the White Mountain National Forest. This area offers breathtaking views and it is considered as one of the best foliage viewing places in the country. As the road takes you through the National Forest, it gives you a first-seat view of the White Mountains, Mount Kancamagus, the Swift River, Lower Falls and the Rocky Gorge.

The road allows you to stop at the Russell Colbath Historic Site, a restored farmhouse turned into a museum built in the 1800s.

NEW JERSEY

Going a bit south, our next stop is in New Jersey. This Mid-Atlantic state might be one of the smaller states, but it offers an excellent road trip destination with the remarkable views its landscape offers.

the Palisades Alpine Picnic Area

• Palisades Scenic Byway

The Palisades Scenic Byway has a 13-mile-long stretch in New Jersey before it continuous into New York. The byway takes you through the Palisades Interstate Park, which offers exceptional scenic views of the landscape. Part of the Park is the Tenafly Nature Center, which is a non-profit nature preserve.

The road starts off the Henry Hudson Drive by the George Washington Bridge, which in itself offers a remarkable view. After that the byway takes you through the Interstate Park to and gives you a glimpse into its wildlife and plant-life. The Park has scenic views of the surrounding area and they are its greatest asset.

night time in Atlantic City

• Ocean Drive

The Ocean Drive is a 49-mile road in south New Jersey which runs along barrier islands to connect Cape May with Atlantic City. The drive prov