7 U.S. Mountain Drives That’ll Take Your Breath Away

There’s something magical about a mountain road — the crisp air, the endless views, and that feeling of freedom only found in the high places. These seven scenic drives through America’s mountain ranges deliver every traveler’s dream: winding roads, breathtaking overlooks, and memories that last a lifetime.

7. Blue Ridge Parkway — North Carolina & Virginia

Known as America’s Favorite Drive, this 469-mile route connects Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You’ll cruise through rolling Appalachian peaks, cozy mountain towns, and more scenic overlooks than you can count. In autumn, the hills glow gold and crimson — a perfect road trip for photographers and leaf lovers alike.

6. Going-to-the-Sun Road — Montana

Carved through Glacier National Park, this route is a masterpiece of mountain engineering. Towering cliffs, turquoise glacial lakes, and wildflower meadows make every mile unforgettable. The 50-mile road crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass — and yes, mountain goats sometimes greet you along the way.

5. Trail Ridge Road — Colorado

At over 12,000 feet, Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park is the highest continuous paved highway in the U.S. You’ll drive above the treeline, surrounded by alpine tundra and distant snowcapped peaks. Keep your camera ready — elk and marmots often make an appearance!

4. Beartooth Highway — Montana & Wyoming

If adventure had a road, this would be it. Winding through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness near Yellowstone National Park, this route features switchbacks, glacier-carved valleys, and sparkling lakes. Charles Kuralt once called it “the most beautiful drive in America” — and he wasn’t wrong.

3. Mount Washington Auto Road — New Hampshire

This steep, scenic climb up Mount Washington isn’t for the faint of heart — but the payoff is worth every twist and turn. Rising 4,618 feet in just eight miles, it offers sweeping views across five states and even into Canada on clear days. Bring a jacket — the summit is famously windy!

2. Million Dollar Highway — Colorado

Part of the San Juan Skyway, this legendary road between Ouray and Silverton is packed with jaw-dropping views — and zero guardrails. Sharp curves and sheer drop-offs make it thrilling, but the mountain vistas will leave you speechless. Pro tip: take your time and enjoy the ride.

1. Tioga Road — California

Crossing Yosemite National Park from west to east, Tioga Road feels like a road trip through heaven itself. Granite domes, alpine meadows, and crystal lakes line the route — with Half Dome shining in the distance. It’s only open in summer, so plan ahead to catch it at its best.

The open road is calling — which mountain drive would you take first? 🚗💨
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