America’s Most Scenic Mountain Drives: Insights from Unofficial Networks Readers
The other day, we asked our audience of skiers, snowboarders, and mountain admirers, “What is the most scenic mountain drive in the United States?” The responses came rolling in from across the country. From hairpin turns in the Rockies to winding paths through Appalachian forests, our readers shared personal stories, tips, and a bit of humor along the way. While opinions varied, a few standout routes emerged as clear crowd-pleasers, aligning with broader lists of top scenic drives in the U.S.
Below, we’ll highlight the most popular picks based on our readers’ responses, complete with direct quotes and practical info to help you plan your own adventure. Whether you’re chasing fall foliage or summer vistas, these drives offer breathtaking views that make every mile worthwhile. Let’s dive in!
1. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park (Montana)
This iconic American route topped the list with the most mentions. It was praised for its dramatic alpine scenery and wildlife sightings. The road spanns about 50 miles through Glacier National Park, it climbs to over 6,600 feet at Logan Pass, offering panoramic views of glaciers, lakes, and rugged peaks. Best visited in summer (typically open late June to mid-October due to snow), it’s a two-lane road with pullouts for photos.
Unofficial Tip: Vehicle length is limited to 21 feet; consider a shuttle if you’re in an RV. Watch for mountain goats and bighorn sheep!
Unofficial Readers reviews:
- “Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier is pretty cool.” – Paul Jones
- “My vote is Going to the Sun road through Glacier National Park in Montana. Did it on a motorcycle once and nearly drove off a cliff as I was doing more admiring the view than following the road. 🤣” – Robert Altmaier
- “I’ve been in all 50 states. Every state has something to offer. But I will say Going to the Sun and the Beartooth Highway are both amazing.” – Wally Stone
If you’re planning a trip, start from St. Mary or West Glacier entrances. Allow 2-3 hours without stops, but budget more for hikes like the Hidden Lake Trail.
2. Beartooth Highway (Montana/Wyoming)
A close second, this high-elevation marvel (U.S. Route 212) stretches 68 miles from Red Lodge, MT, to Yellowstone’s northeast entrance, featuring switchbacks, alpine lakes, and vistas up to 10,947 feet Beartooth Pass. It’s often called “the most beautiful drive in America” and is open late May to mid-October. Expect hairpin turns and potential weather changes with early and late season snowfalls—pack layers and check road status.
Unofficial Tip: Stop at Vista Point for 360-degree views or hike to Gardner Lake.
Our readers reviews:
- “Bear Tooth highway in MT and WY.” – Dan Cooper
- “Nothing compares to the Beartooth Hwy… in Wyoming and Montana…” – Rob Caldwell
- “Beartooth Pass, WY & MT” – Neil Robert Pille
Unofficial tip: Combine it with a Yellowstone visit for an epic loop. Fuel up in Red Lodge, as services are limited en route.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia/North Carolina)
Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” this 469-mile ribon winds through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks. With elevations up to 6,000 feet, it’s famed for fall colors (peak mid-October) and spring wildflowers. Speed limit is 45 mph; no commercial vehicles. Tip: Detour to overlooks like Linn Cove Viaduct or hike sections of the Appalachian Trail.
Reader highlights:
- “Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway.” – Mary Ann Pfeifer
- “Blue Ridge Parkway in the Fall… it’s all Hardwood” – Ricky Hart
- “You can never go wrong riding in the Blue Ridge Parkway” – Jumpmaster Ebben
Open year-round (weather permitting), but fall weekends get crowded—go midweek. Camp at one of the nine campgrounds for an immersive experience.
4. Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)
Part of U.S. Route 550, this 25-mile stretch from Ouray to Silverton is legendary for its sheer drops, no guardrails in spots, and mining history. Built in the 1880s (hence the “million dollar” name—possibly for construction costs or views), it offers San Juan Mountain vistas. Best in summer or fall; winter closures possible.
Unofficial Tip: Drive north to south for the “inside” lane if heights intimidate you.
Quotes from our readers:
- “Million dollar highway during fall” – Steven Sporer
- “The Million Dollar Highway in Colorado!” – James Maddux
- “Million Dollar Highway in CO” – Michael Faoro
Allow 45 minutes to an hour; stop in Ouray for hot springs afterward.
5. Trail Ridge Road, Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
At 48 miles, this is the highest continuous paved road in North America, topping out at 12,183 feet. It crosses the Continental Divide with tundra views, elk herds, and wildflowers. Open late May to mid-October; timed entry permits required.
Unofficial Tip: Acclimate to altitude—drink water and take it slow to avoid sickness.
Reader endorsements:
- “Drive over summit thru Rocky Mountain National Park – no guardrails and severe fall down either side – amazing views!” – Craig Calkin
- “Trail Ridge Road or The Bear Tooth Hwy.” – Gordon Smith
- “Trail Ridge Road, RMNP CO” – G. Roxanne Bybee
Plan for 2 hours; visit the Alpine Visitor Center for exhibits.
6. North Cascades Highway (Washington)
State Route 20 spans 120 miles through North Cascades National Park, with turquoise lakes, glaciers, and jagged peaks. Highlights include Diablo Lake Overlook. Open April-November; check for avalanche closures. Tip: Pair with a hike at Rainy Pass for larch trees in fall.
Your shares:
- “North Cascade Highway on a sunny blue sky fall day with the larches” – Sarah McGann
- “North Cascades highway in WA” – Michael Faoro
- “The North Cascades Highway” – Kyle Cruickshank
Allow a full day; fuel up in Winthrop or Marblemount.
Honorable Mentions and Fun Takes
Other favorites included the Alpine Loop in Utah (“I’ve been all over Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana. But there’s one in Utah that is just a cut above them all: the Alpine Loop from Provo Canyon up through Sundance and down through American Fork Canyon.” – Kent M. Ford), I-70 in Colorado (I think they were joking about the traffic), and Pacific Coast Highway which is not really mountainous but an amazing drive never the less. Some added humor: “I-70 east from Vail to Denver on a Sunday afternoon in March… most amazing 8 hour drive you’ve ever seen 🤣” – Jason Damato (traffic jam alert!). And philosophically: “The one you’re on 😁” – Gendreau ND.
| Drive | Approximate Length | Best Season | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Going-to-the-Sun Road | 50 miles | Summer | Vehicle restrictions apply |
| Beartooth Highway | 68 miles | Summer/Fall | High elevation; watch for weather |
| Blue Ridge Parkway | 469 miles | Fall | Speed limit 45 mph; many overlooks |
| Million Dollar Highway | 25 miles | Summer/Fall | No guardrails in sections |
| Trail Ridge Road | 48 miles | Summer | Altitude acclimation needed |
| North Cascades Highway | 120 miles | Summer/Fall | Hike options abundant |
| Alpine Loop (Utah) | 20 miles | Fall | Off-road sections; 4WD recommended |
These drives remind us of the U.S.’s vast natural beauty. What’s your top pick? Share in the comments—we might feature it next! Safe travels.
