10 Scenic Summer Road Trips to Take in 2025
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Summer beckons with open roads, stunning vistas, and the promise of adventure. There’s something magical about packing up the car, rolling down the windows, and setting off to explore America’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to coastal views, mountain passes, or desert panoramas, the perfect scenic summer road trip awaits. We’ve curated the ten most breathtaking routes across the country, complete with distances, highlights, and insider tips to help you plan an unforgettable journey in 2025.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Best Time |
| San Diego to San Francisco | 600 miles | 10-14 days (recommended) | June to September |
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) delivers California’s most iconic coastal experience, winding along dramatic cliffs and offering unparalleled ocean views. This legendary route follows Highway 1 and portions of Highway 101, showcasing the Golden State’s diverse beauty from southern beaches to northern redwoods.
Scenic Highlights
- Big Sur’s dramatic cliffs and the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge
- Pristine beaches and coves along the central coast
- Towering redwood forests in Northern California
Must-Stop Attractions
- Hearst Castle in San Simeon, the opulent estate of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst
- Monterey Bay Aquarium and the historic Cannery Row
- Picturesque Carmel-by-the-Sea with its charming architecture and white-sand beach
- Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery to witness these magnificent marine mammals
Road Trip Tips
Always check for road closures before your trip, particularly in the Big Sur area where landslides can occur. Summer fog is common in the mornings, especially in Northern California, but typically burns off by midday. Reserve accommodations well in advance, as coastal towns fill quickly during summer months.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia & North Carolina
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Best Time |
| Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park | 469 miles | 3-7 days | June to August |
Often called “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, connecting two magnificent national parks. This scenic byway offers a peaceful journey through lush forests, rolling meadows, and panoramic mountain vistas that showcase the natural beauty of the eastern United States.
Scenic Highlights
- Endless mountain vistas along the 469-mile route
- Lush summer forests and blooming wildflower meadows
- Dramatic waterfalls and pristine mountain streams
Must-Stop Attractions
- Mabry Mill (Milepost 176), one of the most photographed spots on the parkway
- Linville Falls (Milepost 316), a magnificent waterfall cascading into the “Grand Canyon of the East”
- Mount Mitchell (accessible from Milepost 355), the highest peak in the eastern United States
- Craggy Gardens (Milepost 364), known for its twisted, gnarled trees and summer rhododendron blooms
Road Trip Tips
The speed limit is 45 mph or lower throughout the parkway, allowing for a leisurely pace. Cell service is limited, so download offline maps before your trip. Pack layers, as temperatures can be significantly cooler at higher elevations, even in summer. Check the National Park Service website for any closures before setting out.
3. Historic Route 66, Chicago to Santa Monica
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Best Time |
| Chicago, IL to Santa Monica, CA | 2,448 miles | 14-21 days | May to September |
The “Mother Road” of America, Route 66 offers a nostalgic journey through the heart of the country. This historic highway, established in 1926, crosses eight states and three time zones, showcasing America’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. While no longer an official U.S. highway, the preserved segments provide a fascinating glimpse into mid-20th century Americana.
Scenic Highlights
- The dramatic transition from Midwest plains to southwestern deserts
- Painted Desert and Petrified Forest in Arizona
- The majestic Grand Canyon (via a worthwhile detour)
Must-Stop Attractions
- Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, featuring half-buried, graffiti-covered Cadillacs
- Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, a quirky roadside attraction
- Meramec Caverns in Missouri, once a hideout for Jesse James
- Santa Monica Pier in California, the official western terminus of Route 66
Road Trip Tips
Use a detailed Route 66 guidebook or app, as the original route has been replaced by interstates in many areas. Summer temperatures can be extreme in the desert sections, so ensure your vehicle’s air conditioning is in good working order. Plan accommodations in advance to experience historic motels along the route.
4. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Best Time |
| West Glacier to St. Mary | 50 miles | 1-2 days | July to early September |
This engineering marvel cuts through the heart of Glacier National Park, offering one of the most spectacular mountain drives in North America. Completed in 1932, the road crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass (elevation 6,646 feet) and provides access to some of the park’s most stunning landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Scenic Highlights
- Spectacular alpine vistas at Logan Pass
- Pristine mountain lakes reflecting snow-capped peaks
- Cascading waterfalls including Bird Woman Falls
Must-Stop Attractions
- Logan Pass Visitor Center, offering information and access to hiking trails
- Hidden Lake Overlook, a moderate hike with stunning views
- Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park with crystal-clear waters
- St. Mary Lake, featuring the iconic Wild Goose Island viewpoint
Road Trip Tips
The road is typically only fully open from late June to mid-September due to snow. Vehicle size restrictions apply (vehicles longer than 21 feet or wider than 8 feet are prohibited). Arrive early to secure parking at popular areas like Logan Pass. A timed entry reservation system is in effect during peak summer months.
5. Great Lakes Circle Tour, Michigan
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Best Time |
| Circular route around Lake Michigan | 1,100 miles | 7-10 days | June to August |
The Lake Michigan Circle Tour offers a diverse journey through four states, showcasing pristine beaches, charming coastal towns, and stunning dune landscapes. This scenic route follows the shoreline of Lake Michigan, the only Great Lake located entirely within the United States, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Scenic Highlights
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore with massive sand dunes
- Picturesque lighthouses dotting the shoreline
- Pristine beaches with crystal-clear freshwater
Must-Stop Attractions
- Mackinac Island, a car-free Victorian-era destination accessible by ferry
- Door County, Wisconsin, known for its cherry orchards and charming villages
- Indiana Dunes National Park, featuring diverse ecosystems and towering sand dunes
- Traverse City, Michigan’s “Cherry Capital” with excellent wineries and restaurants
Road Trip Tips
Summer is the ideal time for swimming in Lake Michigan, with water temperatures reaching their peak in July and August. Ferry reservations for Mackinac Island should be made in advance during peak season. Follow the blue “Lake Michigan Circle Tour” signs to stay on route.
Plan Your Perfect Summer Road Trip
Ready to hit the road? Download the free Ultimate Road Trip Planner with detailed maps, accommodation recommendations, and a comprehensive trip checklist to make your scenic summer adventure unforgettable.
6. Overseas Highway, Florida Keys
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Best Time |
| Miami to Key West | 113 miles | 3-4 days | May to early June |
The Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1) is an engineering marvel that island-hops across the Florida Keys, connecting the mainland to Key West. Built on the remnants of the historic Florida East Coast Railway, this scenic route features 42 bridges spanning the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, creating a truly unique driving experience.
Scenic Highlights
- Seven Mile Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the world
- Turquoise waters with visibility to the ocean floor
- Spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the water
Must-Stop Attractions
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours
- Bahia Honda State Park, featuring one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches
- The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West
- Key West’s Mallory Square for the famous sunset celebration
Road Trip Tips
Early summer (May to early June) is ideal, before the peak of hurricane season and extreme heat. Traffic can be heavy on weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly. Keep an eye on weather forecasts, especially during hurricane season (June to November). Accommodations in the Keys are limited and expensive, so book well in advance.
7. Beartooth Highway, Montana & Wyoming
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Best Time |
| Red Lodge, MT to Yellowstone National Park | 68 miles | 1-2 days | July to early September |
Charles Kuralt called the Beartooth Highway “the most beautiful drive in America,” and for good reason. This National Scenic Byway climbs to nearly 11,000 feet through the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains, offering breathtaking alpine views and access to pristine wilderness. The highway serves as the northeast entrance to Yellowstone National Park, making it a perfect addition to a park visit.
Scenic Highlights
- Dramatic switchbacks climbing to Beartooth Pass at 10,947 feet
- Alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers in summer
- Pristine mountain lakes and glacial cirques
Must-Stop Attractions
- Rock Creek Vista Point for panoramic views of the valley below
- Top of the World Store, a rustic outpost offering refreshments and souvenirs
- Beartooth Lake, a beautiful alpine lake perfect for fishing or picnicking
- Clay Butte Lookout Tower for 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains
Road Trip Tips
The highway is typically only open from late May to mid-October, with July and August offering the most reliable weather. Pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop dramatically at higher elevations, even in summer. Fill your gas tank before starting the drive, as services are limited. Watch for wildlife, including bears, moose, and mountain goats.
8. Scenic Byway 12, Utah
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Best Time |
| Panguitch to Torrey | 122 miles | 2-3 days | May to June, September |
Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 is an All-American Road that winds through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Southwest. This extraordinary route connects Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks while passing through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, offering access to a remarkable concentration of scenic wonders and outdoor adventures.
Scenic Highlights
- The “Hogsback” section, where the road follows a narrow ridge with steep dropoffs on both sides
- Red rock canyons and formations of varying colors and shapes
- Contrasting landscapes from alpine forests to desert terrain
Must-Stop Attractions
- Bryce Canyon National Park with its otherworldly hoodoo formations
- Kodachrome Basin State Park, featuring colorful spires and unique rock formations
- Escalante Petrified Forest State Park to view ancient fossilized trees
- Boulder Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape
Road Trip Tips
Summer temperatures can be extreme, especially in lower elevations, so early summer (May-June) or September is ideal. Carry plenty of water and sun protection. Cell service is limited throughout the route. Consider adding Zion National Park and Moab (Arches and Canyonlands) to create a comprehensive Utah national parks tour.
9. Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi to Tennessee
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Best Time |
| Natchez, MS to Nashville, TN | 444 miles | 3-5 days | May to early July |
The Natchez Trace Parkway follows a historic travel corridor used by Native Americans and later by European settlers. This peaceful, commercial-free parkway meanders through three states, offering a relaxed journey through the rural South with numerous historical and natural attractions along the way. The absence of commercial development creates a serene driving experience that feels removed from the modern world.
Scenic Highlights
- Lush forests and rolling hills of the rural South
- Cypress swamps and wetlands teeming with wildlife
- The Double Arch Bridge near Franklin, Tennessee
Must-Stop Attractions
- Emerald Mound, one of the largest Native American ceremonial mounds in the country
- Cypress Swamp, featuring a boardwalk trail through a water tupelo and bald cypress swamp
- Meriwether Lewis Monument and gravesite, commemorating the explorer’s mysterious death
- Jackson Falls, a beautiful cascade accessible via a short trail
Road Trip Tips
The speed limit is 50 mph throughout the parkway, creating a leisurely pace. Commercial traffic is prohibited, making for a peaceful drive. Services are limited along the parkway itself, so plan fuel stops at the communities near the parkway. Early summer offers pleasant temperatures before the intense heat and humidity of late summer.
10. North Cascades Highway, Washington
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Best Time |
| Sedro-Woolley to Winthrop | 140 miles | 1-3 days | July to September |
Washington State Route 20, also known as the North Cascades Highway, cuts through the heart of North Cascades National Park, offering access to some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the United States. Often called the “American Alps,” this region features jagged peaks, over 300 glaciers, pristine alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife, creating a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Scenic Highlights
- Jagged mountain peaks with glaciers visible even in summer
- Turquoise alpine lakes like Diablo and Ross Lake
- Dramatic waterfalls cascading down mountainsides
Must-Stop Attractions
- Washington Pass Overlook for spectacular views of Liberty Bell Mountain
- Diablo Lake Vista Point to see the lake’s stunning turquoise waters
- Gorge Creek Falls, easily accessible from a roadside viewpoint
- The western-themed town of Winthrop for shopping and dining
Road Trip Tips
The highway is typically closed from November to May due to heavy snowfall. Even in summer, weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so pack layers and rain gear. Cell service is limited throughout the route. Consider adding time to explore the many hiking trails accessible from the highway.
Planning Your Perfect Scenic Summer Road Trip
America’s diverse landscapes offer endless possibilities for unforgettable scenic summer road trips. Whether you’re drawn to coastal views, mountain vistas, or desert panoramas, these ten routes showcase some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. Remember to plan ahead, especially for popular destinations where accommodations fill quickly during summer months.
The journey matters as much as the destination. Take your time, embrace spontaneous detours, and savor the ever-changing landscapes that make American road trips so special.
Before setting out, ensure your vehicle is in good condition with a pre-trip inspection. Pack essentials like a first aid kit, roadside emergency equipment, plenty of water, and sun protection. Most importantly, stay flexible—some of the best road trip memories come from unexpected discoveries along the way.
Ready for Your Summer Adventure?
Turn inspiration into action with a comprehensive Road Trip Planner. Get detailed maps, accommodation recommendations, packing checklists, and insider tips for all 10 scenic routes featured in this guide.
