The most scenic roads in the US are right here, in California. Who needs hotel reservations when scenic drives are the actual attractions? Stay in the slow lane, soak in the sights, sounds and scents — and do not forget to pack your camera!
1. Route 190: Death Valley Scenic Byway
While the name “Death Valley” does not necessarily conjure up thoughts of fun and excitement, it is actually a one-of-a-kind landscape. America’s Byways reveals that the length of the road trip is roughly 81.5 miles, which translates into about three to four hours of driving time (depending on traffic).
Save this trip for fall, when the weather is still pretty mild. Summer heat can make this an arduous drive for the air conditioning, with temperatures reaching triple digits. Start at Father Crowley Point, go past Stovepipe Wells, see Furnace Creek and end near the Artist’s Palette. See mineral coloration, wildlife and vast borax accumulations.
2. Highway 62: Joshua Tree National Park
There are about 89 miles of road, which you can traverse in as little as three or four hours. Start at Palm Springs and head toward Yucca Valley. Pass Twentynine Palms and head for the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve. See cacti, assorted reptiles, plenty of bighorn sheep and of course lots of Joshua trees. My Scenic Drives offers an excellent map of the locale; it also shows where this scenic road trip takes you back to the 10.
3. Route 168: Ancient Bristlecone Scenic Byway
Numbered among the most scenic roads in the US, the stretch of road only measures 34 miles; it will take little more than two hours to drive its length. America’s Byways shows a detailed map that places the start of the drive at the Big Pine Ranger Station. From there, it goes up to Schulman Grove Visitor’s Center.
Continue traveling to Patriarch Grove, but note that road conditions change from paved byway to gravel. Bristlecone pines are the main attraction of the drive. One of the pines — its location is unmarked — is known to be about 4,800 years old and still living, which places its date of germination to about 2832 B.C. If you come during spring, expect to see large areas carpeted in blooming wildflowers.
4. Off I-5: San Andreas Fault Scenic Drive
In his book “Scenic Driving California,” author Stewart Green identified the San Andreas Fault as a 110-mile roadway. As scenic road trips go, this one is a bit on the long side but well worth the time. Start out at the San Joaquin Valley and follow along the famous fault line all the way to Hollister. Take the 33 off the I-5; it turns into the 198. Turn onto the 25 and take it all the way to the end destination. Visit a couple of days after a heavy rain to see a stunning display of plant life.
5. Route 1: San Luis Obispo North Coast Byway
Without a doubt one of the most scenic highways in America, this one goes right along the Pacific Ocean coastline. America’s Byways offers an excellent map that highlights the various stops along the way, such as Morro Bay, Cambria and San Simeon. Unlike other California scenic road trips, avoid taking this one after a heavy rainfall. Road closures are possible. Keep your eyes open for seals and gorgeous rock formations.
