Explore Nature’s Majesty One Mile at a Time
National Park Travel Guide
Best scenic drives in National Parks, USA National Park road trips, scenic routes America
Hit the road with our 2025 guide to the best scenic drives in America’s National Parks. Discover iconic routes, majestic views, and expert travel tips.National Park Travel Guide
Best scenic drives in National Parks, USA National Park road trips, scenic routes America
Hit the road with our 2025 guide to the best scenic drives in America’s National Parks. Discover iconic routes, majestic views, and expert travel tips.
Why Scenic Drives in National Parks Matter More Than Ever in 2025
In 2025, road trips are more popular than ever. With a renewed focus on eco-conscious travel, outdoor exploration, and flexible itineraries, National Parks offer the perfect backdrop for unforgettable drives through mountains, deserts, forests, and coasts.
“The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.” – John Muir
Top 7 Scenic Drives in U.S. National Parks (2025)
1. Going-to-the-Sun Road – Glacier National Park, Montana
Keywords: Glacier Park drive, Montana scenic road
Carved through rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and wildlife crossings, this 50-mile road is a National Historic Landmark.
Don’t Miss: Logan Pass, Wild Goose Island, and mountain goats on the trail.
2. Scenic Drive – Arches National Park, Utah
Keywords: Arches National Park drive, Utah scenic routes
A 36-mile journey through over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, balanced rocks, and panoramic viewpoints.
Best Time: Sunrise or sunset for golden-hour glow.
3. Crater Lake Rim Drive – Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Keywords: Crater Lake Rim Drive, Oregon park drive
One of the most stunning lake drives in the world. Circle the deepest lake in the U.S. (1,943 feet) with 30+ scenic overlooks.
4. Cades Cove Loop Road – Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
Keywords: Cades Cove drive, Smoky Mountains
A peaceful 11-mile loop rich with Appalachian history, deer, and black bears. Great for biking too.
Insider Tip: Go early morning to avoid traffic and catch foggy valley views.
5. Skyline Drive – Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Keywords: Skyline Drive Shenandoah, Virginia scenic drives
This 105-mile drive winds along the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering 75+ overlooks, hiking trailheads, and vibrant fall colors.
6. Desert View Drive – Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Keywords: Grand Canyon scenic road, Desert View
Stretching from Grand Canyon Village to Desert View, this drive includes epic canyon views, Navajo art stands, and the historic Watchtower.
7. Pacific Coast Drive – Olympic National Park, Washington
Keywords: Olympic park drive, coastal park scenic road
Experience the wild Pacific, lush rainforests, and mountain ridges—all in one drive.
Highlights: Rialto Beach, Hoh Rainforest, and Hurricane Ridge.
National Parks & Road Trip Stats – 2025
- The U.S. has 63 National Parks and over 400 total park sites
- 96% of National Park visitors travel by car or RV
- Over 300 million people visited U.S. National Parks in 2024 (NPS data)
- Skyline Drive and Going-to-the-Sun Road rank among the top 10 most photographed drives in the U.S.
“Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road.” — Walt Whitman
Key Takeaways
- 🏞️ Scenic drives in National Parks offer unmatched access to natural beauty
- 🚗 Many are ideal for short day trips or RV travel in 2025
- 📷 Plan for sunrise, golden hour, or fall foliage to maximize views
- 🌎 Sustainable travel tip: Combine drives with bike trails or hikes to reduce emissions
- 🧭 Always check road conditions and closures at nps.gov before departure
FAQs – Scenic National Park Drives
Q: What’s the best time of year for National Park road trips?
A: Spring and Fall offer the best balance of mild weather, fewer crowds, and vivid scenery.
Q: Do I need a special permit to drive through National Parks?
A: Most only require the standard park entry fee. Some popular routes (like Going-to-the-Sun Road) may require timed-entry reservations in peak season.
Q: Are RVs allowed on these scenic drives?
A: Yes, but some roads (like parts of Zion Canyon Scenic Drive) have vehicle length restrictions.
Q: Which drive is most family-friendly?
A: Cades Cove is great for kids due to slow speeds, wildlife sightings, and frequent stops.
“Jobs fill your pocket, but adventures fill your soul.” — Jamie Lyn Beatty
Famous Figures Connected to National Parks
- John Muir – Founder of the Sierra Club, instrumental in Yosemite and Sequoia conservation
- Teddy Roosevelt – Called the “Conservation President,” established many of the first U.S. National Parks
- Ken Burns – Director of The National Parks: America’s Best Idea
“Wind through glaciers, deserts, and forests—one scenic drive at a time.Discover the best National Park road trips in 2025. #ScenicDrivesUSA #NationalParks #AmericanVoyage”
“Car driving along a scenic road with mountains and pine trees in Glacier National Park during golden hour.”
