Exploring the vastness of America’s national parks is a thrilling adventure, and while many travelers delve into the wilderness on foot, the true beauty of these landscapes can often be appreciated from the comfort of your vehicle. Scenic drives that wind through majestic terrains offer breathtaking views without the physical exertion of hiking. Below, we explore some of the best scenic roads in national parks, showcasing the stunning vistas you can experience along the way.
1. Trail Ridge Road: A High Alpine Journey
Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, stretches 48 miles through the heart of the park, connecting Estes Park and Grand Lake. As one of the highest paved roads in the U.S., this route reaches an elevation of 12,183 feet, providing spectacular views over the Never Summer Mountains and Longs Peak. The road is usually open from late May to early October due to snow, so it’s a perfect summer drive for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Best Views and Hiking Opportunities
The Gore Range Overlook, accessible from this road, offers panoramic vistas and opportunities for short hikes along trails like the Ute Trail. A timed-entry permit is necessary for summer visits, but if you stay on Trail Ridge Road, the process is relatively straightforward.
2. Chain of Craters Road: Witness Eruption Sites
Chain of Craters Road in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers a unique experience as it traverses the Big Island’s volcanic landscape. This 19-mile stretch leads from Kilauea Volcano to the Holei Sea Arch, showcasing active craters and historic lava flows. With the landscape ever-changing due to volcanic activity, it’s an impermanent wonder that should not be missed.
Unmatched Views and Trails
The end of Chain of Craters Road leads to breathtaking views over the Pacific Ocean, and short hikes, like the Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs Trail, allow visitors to see ancient rock carvings as they navigate through old lava fields.
3. Skyline Drive: A Fall Foliage Treasure
Located in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, Skyline Drive spans 105 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With its numerous overlooks and pullouts, this drive is particularly stunning during the fall when the leaves transform into vibrant hues.
Exploration Beyond the Road
Visitors can enjoy hiking opportunities like the Upper Hawksbill Trail, a moderate trek leading to the highest point in the park. Like many park roads, no reservations are needed, and the entrance fee is $30 per vehicle.
4. Going-to-the-Sun Road: A Glacier Wonderland
Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road is a remarkable engineering feat that navigates through some of the most stunning vistas in Montana. Spanning 50 miles, this scenic route showcases glacial peaks, alpine lakes, and beautiful waterfalls. Peak summer months see high traffic, so early morning visits are encouraged to minimize congestion.
Hiking Trails and Scenic Stops
Logan Pass is a must-stop for hikers and visitors, offering multiple trailheads leading into the backcountry as well as stunning gallery views.
5. Crater Lake Rim Drive: Experience America’s Deepest Lake
Crater Lake National Park in Oregon encompasses the deepest lake in the United States, created by a collapsed volcano. The Rim Drive gives travelers a 33-mile journey with ample locations to pause and take in the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding topography.
Perfect Lookouts and Hiking
Watchman Overlook is deemed one of the best views, especially at sunset. Hikers can reach the lake’s shores via the Cleetwood Cove Trail, the only legal route down to the water.
6. White Rim Road: An Off-Roading Adventure
For those seeking an adventurous journey, Canyonlands National Park’s White Rim Road is an exhilarating 100-mile off-road loop. This rugged route provides spectacular views of the Green River and towers over breathtaking canyon landscapes, attracting experienced four-wheel drivers and mountain bikers.
Scenic Highlights and Trail Access
Monument Basin offers prime photo opportunities with its iconic red rock formations. Backcountry hiking trails, like Fort Bottom Trail, give access to ancient ruins and sweeping river views.
7. Grand Loop: The Heart of Yellowstone
The Grand Loop in Yellowstone National Park combines several two-lane roads that interconnect to form a 145-mile loop. This comprehensive drive allows visitors to witness geothermal wonders such as Old Faithful while also showcasing the park’s iconic wildlife.
Rocky Mountain Vistas and Hiking Options
Artist Point offers a stunning perspective of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, with splendid views of waterfalls and canyon walls. Hikers can explore the Mount Washburn Trail for a unique bird’s-eye view.
8. Park Loop Road: Coastal Maine’s Beauty
Finally, Acadia National Park’s Park Loop Road provides a short yet gorgeous drive through some of Maine’s most iconic coastal scenery. This 27-mile route winds its way past cliffs, beaches, and serene ponds.
Explore Scenic Stops and Hiking Trails
Make sure to stop at places like Sand Beach and trek along the Ocean Path for unparalleled views of the Atlantic. For those wishing to see Cadillac Mountain, advance reservations are required for its summit road.
Whether you are in the mood for peaceful drives through forests or exhilarating roads lined with stunning mountain vistas, these scenic routes highlight the majestic beauty found in America’s national parks. Don’t forget to take the time to pull over, explore the trails, and truly immerse yourself in nature’s splendor.
