Top U.S. Highways for an Unforgettable Journey
Exploring America's Scenic Byways: A Journey Through Iconic Landscapes
From the iconic sandstone landmarks of Utah to the diverse cultural experiences of the Mississippi River, the United States offers a wealth of breathtaking road trips for every traveler. Here, we'll take a closer look at three unforgettable routes that showcase the best of America's natural and cultural wonders.
First up is the Great River Road, a 3,000-mile journey along the Mississippi River that passes through ten states and numerous small river towns and cities. This National Scenic Byway offers historical sites, wildlife viewing, museums, and unique cultural experiences such as the Delta Blues in Memphis and Plantation Country.
Next, we have the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, a 500-mile loop through northeastern California and southern Oregon. This All-American Road is famed for its volcanoes, waterfalls, caves, and old mining towns. Highlights along this route include Lassen Volcanic National Park, Mount Shasta, Lava Beds National Monument, Burney Falls, Medicine Lake Volcano, and Crater Lake National Park, home to the deepest lake in the U.S.
For those seeking a mix of dramatic landscapes and diverse outdoor experiences, the Washington-to-Denver corridor is a must-visit. This route passes through a broad variety of ecosystems, from desert canyons to alpine forests, while also featuring cultural hotspots in mountain towns. Notable stops include Moab, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, Rocky Mountain National Park, Aspen, and more.
A two-day trip along Route 66 allows travelers to savor both landscapes and lore, with highlights including the Roadkill Cafe neon sign in Seligman and the Meteor Crater detour in Flagstaff. Spring brings wildflower explosions and autumn paints maple groves in fiery hues in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge.
In Utah, the Delicate Arch Trail delivers the state's iconic sandstone landmark after a 3-mile hike. The best time to see it is during golden hour when shadows stretch across slickrock, creating fiery contrasts. Canyonlands National Park, near Grand Canyon, offers quieter adventures with Mesa Arch's short hike rewarding walkers with sunrise views through a natural stone window.
Meanwhile, in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge, the Historic Highway's stone guardrails frame vistas where basalt cliffs meet swirling river currents. Visitors should pack quick-dry clothing and silica gel packs for camera gear when visiting Sedona during the monsoon season. Wind past Latourell Falls' curtain-like drop, but remember that waterproof shoes are recommended for behind-the-falls adventures.
Photographer Jenna Cole recommends arriving 90 minutes before sunset to claim a spot for photographing Delicate Arch. Ellie Tran advises capturing the drama at Hopi Point during summer storms, as clouds swirl above the gorge like living sculptures.
To ensure travelers catch both icons and hidden gems along Oregon's Columbia River Highway, a well-planned map is essential. Start at Crown Point Vista House for a panoramic orientation. Don't rush past smaller cascades like Horsetail and Ponytail Falls, and chat with artists at Troutdale's galleries before grabbing huckleberry milkshakes at retro diners.
Finally, rangers recommend the 6-mile Serpents Trail for spotting eagles and mule deer in Colorado National Monument. Dawn reveals bighorn sheep grazing near crimson cliffs, with morning light painting rock faces with sharp details, perfect for capturing texture. Visitors should pack layers when visiting Oregon's waterfalls, as weather shifts faster than Instagram feed updates.
Whether you're seeking natural wonders, cultural experiences, or a blend of both, these scenic byways offer unforgettable journeys through America's heartland. So pack your bags, and hit the road!
- Travelers on the Washington-to-Denver corridor can witness diverse lifestyles and gain profound wisdom as they immerse themselves in the landscapes of desert canyons and alpine forests, visiting cultural hotspots in mountain towns.
- To complement a journey of breathtaking American landscapes along the Great River Road, embracing the delta blues in Memphis or exploring historical sites will provide travelers with a rich understanding of the region's cultural wonders and lifestyle, granting a deeper understanding of the country's heritage.
