15 Best Scenic Drives In The USA For Wildlife And Nature Lovers
If you’re a lover of nature, there’s no better way to experience America’s wild beauty than from the open road. The USA is home to some of the most stunning scenic drives, so don’t wait any longer!
These drives are so much more than that. They’re an adventure, an invitation to hit pause, leave the stress behind, and reconnect with the natural world.
The journey is as important as the destination, so take that wheel and let’s go!
1. Going-to-the-Sun Road – Montana
Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana offers one of those rare opportunities to witness nature in its raw, breathtaking beauty. With Glacier National Park as your backdrop, each twist and turn unveils a new landscape.
As you drive along, keep an eye out for mountain goats and bighorn sheep gracefully perched on rocky ledges. The air is crisp, and the scenery is so stunning you might just forget you’re in a car.
Consider stopping at Logan Pass, the highest point on the road, for a short hike and a chance to fully take in the views. The harmony of land, sky, and wildlife is truly unforgettable.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway – North Carolina & Virginia
Driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway is like entering a living painting. With its stunning views and rich biodiversity, it’s no wonder it’s often called “America’s Favorite Drive.”
The parkway meanders through the Appalachian Mountains, offering glimpses of deer and black bears in their natural habitats. Spring brings a burst of wildflowers, while autumn sets the landscape ablaze with vibrant colors.
You don’t want to miss a stop at the iconic Mabry Mill, where you can indulge in some local fare and enjoy live music.
3. Yellowstone’s Grand Loop – Wyoming
When you’re on Yellowstone’s Grand Loop, adventure awaits at every bend. Spanning the heart of America’s first national park, this route is a showcase of geothermal wonders and untamed wildlife.
Bubbling geysers and steaming hot springs create a mesmerizing landscape that feels almost otherworldly. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the park’s residents. I’m talking about: bison, elk, and perhaps even a grizzly bear, if you’re lucky.
The loop takes you through diverse ecosystems, from meadows to rugged mountains, each offering its own unique charm. A stop at Old Faithful is a must, where you can witness the iconic geyser’s eruption.
4. Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) – California
Cruising along California’s Pacific Coast Highway feels like a scene straight out of a Hollywood movie. Known for its stunning ocean views and breathtaking cliffs, this highway is a dream for photographers and nature lovers alike.
With the Pacific Ocean as your constant companion, every mile presents a new view. Stop by the charming seaside towns like Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, where you can sample fresh seafood and explore local art galleries.
This drive is more than just a road. It’s a journey of discovery along one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines.
5. The Million Dollar Highway – Colorado
If adventure had a name, it might just be the Million Dollar Highway. Right in the heart of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, this road is not for the faint of heart. But oh, the views are worth every hairpin turn.
The highway offers beautiful vistas of peaks and valleys, making it a must for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts. Legend has it the road got its name from the gold-bearing ore used in its construction, or perhaps from the million-dollar views.
Either way, you’re in for a treat. As you navigate this breathtaking route, take a moment to stop and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
6. Denali Park Road – Alaska
Take a peak of the wild heart of Alaska on the Denali Park Road. Spanning 92 miles through Denali National Park, it’s a journey through pristine wilderness and raw beauty.
The road is a gateway to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in North America. Wildlife sightings are a highlight here, with opportunities to spot caribou, grizzly bears, and Dall sheep.
There’s no way that you don’t feel a deep connection to nature. The limited access ensures a peaceful experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the park’s untouched splendor.
7. Lamar Valley Road – Wyoming (Yellowstone National Park)
There’s a good reason why Lamar Valley Road is often called the “Serengeti of North America”. Where can you find it? In Yellowstone National Park.
This road offers unmatched opportunities for wildlife viewing. Big open valleys stretch as far as the eye can see, with herds of bison dotting the landscape. The road is a paradise for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
You’ll catch wolves, bears, and elk freely roaming. This offers you a unique glimpse into the park’s rich biodiversity. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times for spotting these magnificent creatures.
8. Outer Banks Scenic Byway – North Carolina
The Outer Banks Scenic Byway is more than just a road. It’s a journey into the heart of North Carolina’s coastal beauty and maritime charm.
If you’re a birdwatcher, you’re in for a treat. The Outer Banks are a haven for migrating species, offering opportunities to see some of nature’s most remarkable creatures.
The maritime forests provide a green backdrop to the expansive sandy beaches, offering the perfect contrast and a peaceful retreat from the open ocean.
One stop you absolutely can’t miss is Cape Hatteras. You can climb the iconic lighthouse for a panoramic view of the coastline and learn about the area’s fascinating nautical heritage.
9. Highway 12 – Utah
This is not your ordinary road. Highway 12 in Utah is a visual masterpiece that seems not to belong to this world.
This iconic highway connects Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon National Parks, opening the door to some of Utah’s most awe-inspiring scenery. What’s waiting for you are: cliffs, pine forests, and high desert plateaus.
It’s a place where every mile is an adventure, and the landscape constantly shifts, showing you something new and exciting.
10. Olympic Peninsula Loop – Washington
The Olympic Peninsula Loop in Washington is a road that promises an enchanting escape into nature’s wonderland. Encircling Olympic National Park, this loop takes you through a diverse array of ecosystems, from temperate rainforests to coastlines.
The coastline offers stunning ocean views and opportunities to spot marine life such as seals and whales. As you explore this scenic route, consider a detour to the Hoh Rainforest, where ancient trees and abundant wildlife create a magical setting.
This drive is an invitation to experience the beauty and diversity of one of America’s most unique natural landscapes.
11. Cades Cove Loop – Tennessee (Great Smoky Mountains)
Cades Cove Loop is a journey into the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. This scenic drive takes you through a picturesque valley, where history and nature intertwine in perfect harmony.
Known for its well-preserved historic cabins and churches, this loop offers a rare glimpse into the past, giving you a taste of what life was like in the cove centuries ago.
As you explore, you might find yourself face-to-face with deer or even the elusive black bears, adding a touch of wild charm to the already magical landscape.
12. Beartooth Highway – Montana & Wyoming
Beartooth Highway is a road that seems to touch the sky. It winds through Montana and Wyoming and offers some of the most breathtaking mountain views in the country.
The Beartooth Range stands tall, with its peaks and alpine lakes creating a dramatic backdrop. This highway is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and simply soaking in the stunning scenery.
Wildflower meadows burst into color during the summer months, adding to the road’s natural allure. As you traverse this magnificent route, you’ll feel a sense of awe and wonder at the sheer beauty of the landscape.
13. Kancamagus Highway – New Hampshire
If you’ve ever dreamed of driving through an autumn wonderland, then the Kancamagus Highway, or “The Kanc,” is a must-see. This New Hampshire route weaves through the White Mountains, offering a front-row seat to nature’s breathtaking seasonal spectacle.
Renowned for its vibrant fall foliage, “The Kanc” is a magnet for leaf-peepers from all over, especially when the landscape is ablaze with hues of red, orange, and yellow.
The Kanc” feels like a journey through a landscape that is both timeless and ever-changing. It’s the kind of drive that makes you appreciate the simplicity of the open road and the profound beauty of the world around you.
14. Natchez Trace Parkway – Mississippi, Alabama & Tennessee
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a journey through history and nature in the heart of the Southeast USA. Spanning three states, this parkway offers a scenic escape into a landscape of rolling hills and forests.
Very rich in history, this road has been traveled for centuries by Indigenous peoples, European settlers, and Civil War soldiers. Today, it offers a peaceful retreat where you can explore historical sites and immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty.
The Natchez Trace Parkway provides a peaceful adventure. It’s a reminder of the stories and landscapes that have shaped this part of America, inviting you to discover its timeless charm.
15. Scenic Byway 143 (Patchwork Parkway) – Utah
Ready for a road trip that feels like you’re driving through a living canvas? Scenic Byway 143, aka Patchwork Parkway, is a route that will take your breath away at every turn.
It’s like nature threw every color and texture it could find into one amazing landscape.
The best part? You get to experience it all from the comfort of your car. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails for a closer look at the wonders around you.