NEW YORK, NY — A travel writer who has driven across the country picked eight scenic routes that stood out for their views, wildlife and variety. The list ranges from mountain park roads to desert highways and a stretch of Pacific coastline.
The selections are spread across the West and include well-known park drives, remote coastal corridors and high-elevation routes that reward travelers who are willing to slow down and take in the scenery.
Grand Teton and Glacier roads anchor the mountain-heavy routes
Two of the most dramatic drives are in Wyoming and Montana. Teton Park Road runs 42 miles along the base of the Teton Range in Grand Teton National Park, where travelers may see moose in ponds and bison crossing the road.
Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park spans 50 miles and climbs to Logan Pass at 6,646 feet. The route is known for waterfalls, glaciers and sweeping alpine views, but seasonal closures and vehicle size limits mean planning ahead is essential.
Mount Rainier and Yosemite offer famous park scenery from the car
In Washington, Sunrise Park Road leads to the highest accessible point in Mount Rainier National Park at 6,400 feet. The drive opens onto subalpine meadows and summer wildflowers with Mount Rainier dominating the horizon.
California’s Yosemite Valley Loop passes some of the park’s best-known landmarks, including El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall. The writer recommends avoiding peak crowds by going early, late or in November.
Desert, coast and canyon routes add variety beyond the national parks
Nevada’s Mouse’s Tank Road in Valley of Fire State Park is a short drive of less than two miles, but it cuts through red Aztec sandstone and passes petroglyphs that make the route memorable.
Oregon’s Highway 101 through the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor covers 12 miles of coastline with sea stacks, natural bridges and Pacific Ocean views. In Colorado, the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton winds through the San Juan Mountains, while California’s Highway 395 threads past Mono Lake, the Alabama Hills and ancient bristlecone pine forests.
Why the writer says road trips beat rushing through on a flight
The appeal of these drives is not only the scenery but also the chance to experience the country at ground level. The writer argues that the views, stops and sense of place make road travel worthwhile even when it means a slower trip.
From high mountain passes to lonely desert roads, the eight routes were chosen as places where travelers can pull over, look around and appreciate landscapes that are easy to miss from an airplane seat.
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