Embarking on a road trip through America’s national parks is one of the best ways to experience the country’s natural beauty. From winding mountain roads to coastal highways, these scenic drives are a dream for nature lovers, photographers, and road-trip enthusiasts. Get ready to explore these breathtaking national park routes that offer unparalleled views, unique landscapes, and unforgettable memories.
1. Going-to-the-Sun Road – Glacier National Park, Montana
Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a 50-mile marvel of engineering and natural beauty. Key highlights include:
- Logan Pass: Panoramic views and access to the famous Highline Trail.
- Wild Goose Island Viewpoint: Perfect for capturing stunning lake scenery.
- Weeping Wall: A seasonal waterfall that cascades directly onto the road.
Travel during summer or early fall for the best experience. Arrive early to secure parking and spot wildlife such as mountain goats and bears.
2. Skyline Drive – Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
This 105-mile drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains offers:
- Over 70 scenic overlooks showcasing rolling hills and lush forests.
- Hawksbill Summit: The park’s highest point with spectacular views.
- Big Meadows: Ideal for picnics and wildlife spotting.
Plan your trip in October for stunning fall foliage. Don’t forget your camera to capture the golden hues of autumn.
3. Trail Ridge Road – Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Known as the “Highway to the Sky,” this 48-mile drive climbs to over 12,000 feet. Key stops include:
- Alpine Visitor Center: Learn about the alpine ecosystem.
- Milner Pass: Cross the Continental Divide with scenic views.
Dress warmly and make frequent stops to acclimate to the altitude.
4. Blue Ridge Parkway – North Carolina and Virginia
This 469-mile drive, connecting Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks, is filled with must-see spots:
- Linn Cove Viaduct: A masterpiece of engineering hugging the mountainside.
- Mabry Mill: A picturesque historic gristmill.
- Craggy Gardens: Famous for rhododendron blooms in late spring.
Allocate several days to fully explore this “America’s Favorite Drive.”
5. Scenic Drive – Zion National Park, Utah
Zion’s 12-mile Scenic Drive showcases dramatic sandstone cliffs and lush landscapes. Key points:
- Court of the Patriarchs: Towering sandstone peaks.
- The Grotto: A serene picnic spot with trail access.
- Big Bend: A stunning viewpoint of Zion Canyon.
Visit during sunrise or sunset for vibrant hues across the cliffs.
6. Park Loop Road – Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia’s 27-mile loop offers incredible diversity, including:
- Cadillac Mountain: Sunrise views from the highest point on the U.S. East Coast.
- Thunder Hole: A natural rock formation with dramatic wave action.
Explore early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
7. Grand Loop Road – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone’s 142-mile Grand Loop Road connects iconic attractions like:
- Old Faithful: A must-see geyser erupting at regular intervals.
- Grand Prismatic Spring: A colorful geothermal wonder.
Allow at least two days to fully enjoy this epic route.
8. Tioga Road – Yosemite National Park, California
This 46-mile alpine drive through Yosemite’s high country features:
- Olmsted Point: Unique views of Half Dome.
- Tenaya Lake: Perfect for a tranquil picnic or kayaking adventure.
9. Desert View Drive – Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
This 23-mile route along the South Rim includes:
- Desert View Watchtower: A historic structure with breathtaking views.
- Navajo Point: The highest viewpoint along the rim.
10. Road to Paradise – Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
This scenic route leads to Paradise, famed for:
- Reflection Lakes: Mirroring the mountain’s snow-capped peak.
- Narada Falls: A dramatic two-tiered waterfall.
Best visited in summer and early fall for blooming wildflowers.
Copyright: Alan Majchrowicz
11. Rim Rock Drive – Colorado National Monument
A 23-mile journey through dramatic red rock landscapes with stops like:
- Independence Monument View: A towering sandstone formation.
- Artists Point: Sweeping vistas of rugged canyons.
12. Cades Cove Loop Road – Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
This 11-mile loop offers:
- Historic Cabins and Churches: Step back in time.
- Frequent sightings of deer, bears, and wild turkeys.
13. Needles Highway – Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota
This 14-mile route features needle-like granite formations, narrow tunnels, and scenic overlooks. Combine with a visit to Mount Rushmore for a full day of adventure.
14. Kings Canyon Scenic Byway – Kings Canyon National Park, California
This 50-mile drive through one of America’s deepest canyons offers:
- Grizzly Falls: A cascading waterfall perfect for photos.
- Zumwalt Meadow: A tranquil hiking spot surrounded by towering peaks.
15. Lava Beds Loop – Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho
Drive through ancient lava fields and volcanic landscapes with stops at:
- Inferno Cone: A short climb with expansive views.
- Devil’s Orchard: A trail through a surreal volcanic garden.
16. Wildlife Loop Road – Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
This 18-mile route offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities, including bison and prairie dogs.
17. Circle Drive – Badlands National Park, South Dakota
A 39-mile loop that highlights the park’s striking geology and abundant wildlife. Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for photos.
