classic road trip - RVing with Rex

Skyline Drive: A Scenic Alternative to the Blue Ridge Parkway

Skyline Drive is a great option for those looking for a serene, scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains offering a quieter, less-traveled route compared to the Blue Ridge Parkway

The beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway through the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina and Virginia gets a lot of attention for its breathtaking mountain views drawing over 16 million visitors annually. But did you know there is an equally stunning ride with fewer crowds and a more relaxed vibe?

Skyline Drive in Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah National Park and its many attractions is a perfect alternative. Skyline Drive offers spectacular views, abundant wildlife, and the opportunity to explore a quieter, less-traveled route through the northern part of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Stretching 105 miles, this scenic drive offers all the charm of the Blue Ridge Parkway with unique highlights that set it apart. Here’s why you should skip the Parkway and explore Skyline Drive instead.

Skyline Parkway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Skip the Blue Ridge Parkway for a quieter experience on Skyline Drive

Explore stunning views at a laid-back pace

Skyline Drive is a dream come true for those who want to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains without the congestion that can come with the Blue Ridge Parkway. This scenic drive runs the entire length of Shenandoah National Park offering 75 scenic overlooks that offers views of the Shenandoah Valley to the west and the rolling Piedmont region to the east.

To relish the views, the route’s slower speed limit (35 mph) encourages you to take your time and truly enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. With fewer crowds, you’ll have more opportunities to pull over, take photos, and fully immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty.

Best scenic overlooks

These overlooks are spread across different sections of Skyline Drive

The best scenic overlooks on Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park known for their panoramic mountain and valley views include the following top spots:

Range View Overlook (Mile 17.1): Offers a sweeping view down the Blue Ridge to Stony Man Mountain including Jenkins Mountains, Gimlet Ridge, Massanutten Mountain, and the Alleghenies beyond.
Hogback Overlook (Mile 20.8): The longest overlook in the park providing views of the Shenandoah River, Massanutten Mountain ridges, and the valleys of Overall Run and Mathews Arm.
Buck Hollow Overlook (Mile 32.8): A great spot for sunrise views including Skinner Ridge and the town of Sperryville.
Hazel Mountain Overlook (Mile 33.0): Known for views of Buck Ridge and Hazel Mountain with interesting exposed granodiorite rock formations.
Spitler Knoll Overlook (Mile 48.1): Curves along with the road overlooking Page Valley and the Shenandoah River with views of Stanley town and Blackrock Mountain.
The Point Overlook (Mile 55.5): A favorite for its iconic Shenandoah landscape with rolling ridges and Shenandoah Valley views especially stunning at sunset.
Rockytop Overlook (Mile 78.0): Offers a rugged panorama of the South District mountains and is particularly beautiful during fall foliage.
Big Run Overlook (Mile 81.2): Features the scenic valley of Big Run with views of Rockytop Ridge, Rocky Mountain, and Brown Mountain.
Crimora Lake Overlook (Mile 92.6): Offers a view of Crimora Lake framed by Turk Mountain and Rocks Mountain plus Wildcat Mountain in the distance.

These overlooks provide a diverse range of vistas facing both east and west allowing visitors to enjoy sunrises, sunsets, and expansive mountain scenery throughout the park.

Skyline Drive offers beautiful hikes

Scenic overlooks and access to Shenandoah’s trails for every type of traveler

For those who enjoy hiking, Skyline Drive has access to over 500 miles of trails in Shenandoah National Park including portions of the international Appalachian Trail (Hiking the full international Appalachian Trail would be like hiking on steroids as the complete trail covers 2,400 miles).

Skyline Drive offers a variety of beautiful hikes suitable for different skill levels showcasing stunning mountain views, waterfalls, and diverse natural scenery.

Some of the best hikes accessible directly from Skyline Drive include:

Mary’s Rock via the Pinnacle (7.2 miles, moderate): This hike follows a spectacular section of the Appalachian Trail offering expansive and frequent panoramic views culminating in a 360-degree vista from Mary’s Rock summit. The trailhead is at Pinnacles Picnic Area (Mile 36.7).
Hawksbill Summit (2.2 miles, easy): The easiest route to Shenandoah’s highest peak featuring a rare spruce-fir forest and a man-made observation platform with nearly 360-degree views. Trailhead is at Mile 46.7 on Skyline Drive.
Stony Man Loop (3.7 miles, easy): A loop trail that climbs to cliffs 3,000 feet above Shenandoah Valley with multiple overlooks and historical points. The trail starts near Skyland Resort at Mile 41.7.
Loft Mountain Loop (2.9 miles, easy): A family-friendly hike to a large rock outcrop with wide-open views starting at Loft Mountain Wayside (Mile 79.5).
Rose River Loop (4 miles, moderate): Known for several beautiful waterfalls along the trail, this loop starts at Fishers Gap Overlook and is especially photogenic, ideal for those interested in waterfall photography.
Dark Hollow Falls (1.4 miles, moderate): A popular short hike to a scenic waterfall although the return climb is steep. It is one of the most visited trails but offers rewarding views.

Additional hikes like Sugarloaf-Keyser Run Fire Road, Lewis Springs Fall Loop, and trails connecting to the Appalachian Trail provide more options for exploration.

These hikes offer a mix of mountain summits, waterfall views, and forested trails, making Skyline Drive a prime destination for hikers seeking both easy strolls and moderate challenges amid stunning scenery.

Mule deer along the Skyline Parkway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Skyline Drive offers wildlife viewing opportunities

An estimated 200 to 1,000 in the park, mostly active at dawn and dusk

Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities amid its protected wilderness and scenic Blue Ridge vistas. Here’s why it stands out and what you can expect:

Diverse wildlife habitat: The park encompasses 200,000 acres of forest, streams, and meadows that provide a lush habitat for a variety of animals. Commonly spotted species include white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, red foxes, and numerous songbirds. The park’s efforts to keep roadsides uncut encourage wildflowers and natural growth that support this rich biodiversity.
Best viewing times and locations: Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times to see wildlife as animals are more active then. Big Meadows (around Mile 51) is especially known for frequent deer and black bear sightings as these animals come out to feed in the open spaces. Pulling off at any of the 69 scenic overlooks along Skyline Drive can also provide chances to spot wildlife in the valleys and forests below.
Birdwatching paradise: Spring is ideal for birdwatching with many songbirds preparing to breed and raptors hunting or nesting along the ridgelines. Trails like the Limberlost Trail (Mile 43) offer excellent birding opportunities with species such as warblers, flycatchers, and owls present.
Safety and etiquette: Wildlife may dart across the road unexpectedly so it’s important to drive cautiously and watch for animals. If you want a closer look always pull completely off the road and remain inside your vehicle to avoid disturbing the animals or putting yourself at risk. Feeding wildlife is prohibited to protect both visitors and animals.
Ranger programs and visitor centers: The Harry F. Byrd, Sr. Visitor Center (Mile 51) offers information and ranger-led programs that can enhance your wildlife viewing experience with expert guidance and insights.

In essence, Skyline Drive is not just a scenic mountain road but a vibrant wildlife corridor offering visitors the chance to observe and appreciate the natural inhabitants of the Blue Ridge Mountains in a safe, respectful, and immersive way.

Warning: Because of bear sightings in the area, ensure your food is stored correctly in your vehicle and campsite to avoid unwanted encounters.

Best campgrounds along Skyline Drive

Each campground offers a unique blend of amenities and natural beauty

If you’re looking for the best campgrounds along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park and nearby areas, here are top recommendations that combine beautiful natural settings, access to hiking trails, and family-friendly amenities:

Big Meadows Campground

Why choose it: Big Meadows is the largest and most popular campground in Shenandoah National Park, centrally located at Mile 51 on Skyline Drive. It offers over 200 campsites with a mix of tent and RV sites, picnic tables, fire rings, and easy access to popular hikes like Dark Hollow Falls and the Appalachian Trail.
Standout features: Its proximity to the Byrd Visitor Center and ranger-led programs creates a vibrant atmosphere. The campground has running water, showers, restrooms, and a dump station nearby.
Advantages: Great for families and first-time campers with plenty of shaded sites and well-maintained facilities. The large number of sites means more availability especially in shoulder seasons.
Drawbacks: Can get busy on weekends and holidays so arriving early or booking ahead is recommended.

Mathews Arm Campground

Why choose it: Located at Mile 22.2, Mathews Arm is a leafy, family-oriented campground with 165 sites including tent and RV spots. It’s quieter than Big Meadows and offers a peaceful forest setting with picnic tables and fire rings.
Standout features: It has a dump station and water hookups for RVs plus easy access to hiking trails for a more secluded experience.
Advantages: Less crowded, great for campers seeking a quieter stay while still being close to Skyline Drive’s scenic attractions.
Drawbacks: Limited showers and no hookups for electricity; sites are mostly first-come, first-served with some reservations available.

Loft Mountain Campground

Why choose it: The southernmost campground on Skyline Drive at Mile 79.5, Loft Mountain offers 207 sites perched at 3,400 feet with panoramic mountain views. It’s ideal for those wanting a mountaintop camping experience.
Standout features: It includes tent-only sites, RV sites, coin-operated showers, laundry facilities, and a camp store nearby. Trails to waterfalls and wilderness areas start right here.
Advantages: Spacious, scenic, and less congested than Big Meadows, perfect for campers who want both convenience and natural beauty.
Drawbacks: Higher elevation means cooler temperatures and potentially more wind; no electric hookups.

Lewis Mountain Campground

Why choose it: The smallest campground in the park with about 30 sites, Lewis Mountain caters mainly to tent campers and hikers including Appalachian Trail through-hikers.
Standout features: Offers a rustic, peaceful setting with cabins available for those seeking basic shelter.
Advantages: Ideal for campers wanting a quiet, back-to-nature experience with close trail access.
Drawbacks: Very limited amenities—no hookups, no dump station, and sites are close together.

Nearby private and state park campgrounds

Riverside Camping (Shenandoah, VA): Offers RV hookups, showers, and family-friendly amenities with a convenient location near the park.
Shenandoah River State Park Campground: Highly rated with spacious sites, hiking, picnic areas, and boat launches along the Shenandoah River, suitable for RVs and tents.
Shenandoah Valley Campground LLC: Family-oriented with playgrounds and dog parks, great for those wanting more developed facilities outside the national park.

Best times to visit Skyline Drive

Every season offers different experiences and stunning scenery

One of the best things about Skyline Drive is that it’s beautiful year-round. Each season brings its own charm making it an appealing destination no matter the time of year. Depending on the type of experience you’re looking for, you may visit during certain months over others.

Even though the Blue Ridge Parkway is considered America’s most beautiful road in October, Skyline Drive easily rivals it. In the fall, the treeline along Skyline Drive comes alive with brilliant displays of autumn foliage, attracting visitors from all over to see vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold blanket the mountainsides. The peak of fall foliage usually occurs in mid-October making this an ideal time to visit if you want to catch nature’s stunning seasonal glow.

Spring is another beautiful time to explore Skyline Drive as the park bursts into bloom with wildflowers like trillium, mountain laurel, and azaleas. The cool temperatures and fresh spring greenery provide the perfect backdrop for hiking and photography.

With warmer temperatures, summer is a great time for camping and outdoor activities. But if you’d like to see a snow-dusted version of the Blue Ridge Mountains with clear, crisp skies, then winter is your best bet.

In short, Skyline Drive offers all the adventure and biodiversity that come with the Blue Ridge Parkway but with a more laid-back and tranquil atmosphere.

Worth Pondering…

Almost heaven, West Virginia
Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River
Life is old there, older than the trees
Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze

Country roads, take me home
Take me home, country roads.

—John Denver

Why Great Smoky Mountains Isn’t America’s Most Popular National Park

America’s most popular national park isn’t a major national park at all; it’s a scenic parkway that continues to attract more visitors than any other National Park Service site including the widely beloved Great Smoky Mountains

While most people assume the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited in the US that title actually belongs to the Blue Ridge Parkway.

In 2024, the scenic byway that winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and Virginia welcomed a staggering 16.7 million visitors. That’s more than the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite combined. Despite being a road rather than a traditional park, the Parkway consistently tops National Park Service (NPS) visitation charts—a fact that often goes unnoticed.

Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The Blue Ridge Parkway is the most popular NPS site in the US

The Blue Ridge Parkway was the most visited NPS site in 2024 with 16.7 million visitors making it the top destination last year

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic byway that connects Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Highlands. But beyond just being a connector, it has become a destination in its own right. In 2024, the Parkway attracted 16.7 million visitors making it the most-visited site in the NPS.

By contrast, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, often assumed to be the most popular, received 12.1 million visitors in the same year placing it third overall behind the Golden Gate National Recreation Area which came in second with 14.9 million.

What surprises many is that the Blue Ridge Parkway isn’t a “park” in the conventional sense. It’s not a major national park like the Great Smoky Mountains; instead, it’s a national park unit or site that’s actually a road. It offers a scenic drive and a road trip experience through misty mountain ranges, expansive vistas, and dense forests.

Like Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway is also free to enter and drive, easily accessible, and open year-round. It’s designed for scenic driving with countless overlooks, hiking trailheads, waterfalls, and picnic spots along the way.

Unlike traditional parks that require more planning and preparation, the Parkway is perfect for spontaneous visits—whether you’re stopping for a quick photo or heading out for a weekend of camping under the stars.

Note: Some Blue Ridge Parkway visitors say partial closures due to Helene impacts and recovery work make navigation difficult. See details below.

Blue Ridge Parkeay in North Carolina *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Why do so many people flock to the Parkway every year?

The combination of breathtaking natural beauty, recreational diversity, and rich history

There’s a quiet charm to the Blue Ridge Parkway that draws millions of people year after year. For one, it’s incredibly accessible. No reservations and no entrance fees—just get in your car (or RV) and go. It meanders through some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the eastern US with sweeping views that change dramatically with the seasons.

The drive itself becomes the destination on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Unlike some national parks that require long hikes to reach scenic viewpoints, the Parkway offers panoramic vistas right from your car window. But it’s not just for drivers. The route includes hundreds of miles of hiking trails along with numerous campgrounds and picnic areas for those who want to explore on foot.

Visitors can enjoy stunning natural features along the Parkway including nearly 20 tunnels, scenic overlooks like Humpback Rocks and Craggy Pinnacle, and easily accessible waterfalls such as Crabtree Falls, Looking Glass Falls, Linville Falls, and Cascade Falls.

Iconic landmarks like the Natural Bridge, Linn Cove Viaduct, Mount Mitchell, and Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park further enhance the experience. With such a diverse range of attractions, the Parkway is perfect for families, casual travelers, and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Blue Ridge Parkeay in Virginia *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

It beats the Smokies and the most iconic parks in the country

Free access, scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and ease of visit make it more popular than many of the nation’s most iconic parks

When most people think of America’s most popular national parks iconic names like Zion, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon usually top the list. But the numbers tell a different story. In 2024, the Blue Ridge Parkway alone drew 16.7 million visitors—more than all three of those parks combined. The Grand Canyon saw 4.7 million, Zion 4.9 million, and Yosemite 3.9 million.

Even the Great Smoky Mountains, long thought to be the undisputed leader, came in at 12.1 million visitors. That’s impressive, but still short of the Parkway’s consistently higher volume.

So what gives the Parkway its edge? It’s convenient, flexible, and free—no permits, reservations, or long drives to get in. You can visit for a quick sightseeing day trip or spend a week camping and hiking. Its location, within a few hours of cities like Gatlinburg, Asheville, and Roanoke, plays a big role.

And it’s not a new trend. The Parkway has drawn big crowds for decades hitting a record 21.5 million visitors in 2002. For over 20 years, it regularly topped 16 million annually. This isn’t just a coincidence—it’s a reflection of how deeply loved and accessible this scenic drive really is.

When is the best time to visit the Blue Ridge Parkway?

For the best weather late spring through early fall is optimal with fall offering the most iconic scenic beauty due to the foliage

While the Blue Ridge Parkway is open year-round, fall is by far the most popular season thanks to the vibrant foliage that blankets the mountains on this one-of-a-kind scenic drive. But spring and summer offer lush greenery, wildflowers, and mild weather—perfect for hiking, biking, and camping.

Winter, while quieter and colder, can still offer serene views, especially at higher elevations where snow is common. Take note that some sections may be closed at this time of the year, so check road conditions before taking off. Winter also offers a quieter experience with fewer crowds.

Summary of the seasons on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Parkway provides distinct experiences each season

Spring: Best for wildflowers, mild temps
Summer: Best for hiking, camping, and more crowds
Fall: Best for peak foliage, photography
Winter: Best for quiet solitude, possible snow, less crowded

Looking for more on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue Ridge Parkway welcomes visitors despite Helene damage

Local tourism authorities are encouraging visitors to return and support the region during the recovery period

The Blue Ridge Parkway continues to welcome visitors despite significant damage caused by Hurricane Helene in September 2024 which brought heavy rain (up to 30 inches in some areas) and strong winds (up to 60-100 mph) resulting in thousands of downed trees, debris, landslides, and damage to roads and facilities.

Many sections of the parkway especially in North Carolina remain closed due to ongoing repairs and safety concerns including unstable slopes, damaged road segments, and hazard trees. Visitors are strongly encouraged to check the latest road and facility closures on the official Blue Ridge Parkway website before planning their trip to avoid areas still affected by the storm.

Despite these challenges, large portions of the parkway are open including all 217 miles in Virginia and several sections in North Carolina such as near Asheville and the Pisgah Inn area allowing visitors to enjoy scenic drives and outdoor activities. The NPS and crews continue recovery efforts focusing on road stabilization, debris removal, and restoration projects with some repairs expected to continue into summer 2025 and beyond.

Parkway officials emphasize visitor safety and ask the public to respect closures and barriers to prevent accidents and support recovery work. Unauthorized entry into closed sections may result in citations. Overall, while the parkway is recovering from one of the most severe storms in its history, it remains a valuable destination with many accessible areas for visitors.

With its breathtaking views, easy access, and flexible format, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers something for everyone—and proves that sometimes, the journey actually really is the destination.

Worth Pondering…

Almost heaven, West Virginia
Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River
Life is old there, older than the trees
Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze

Country roads, take me home
Take me home, country roads.

—John Denver

Scenic Road Trips with Unforgettable Stops along the Way

Road trip! Arguably the two sweetest words in the English language, right?

If the United States is good at one thing when it comes to infrastructure planning, it’s probably the highway system. Originally founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956, the U.S. Highway system is the backbone for domestic trade and travel and has almost become a cultural phenomenon for the country.

Van life, car culture, and road trips aren’t uniquely American but they are easily folded into the highway-centric lifestyle of most Americans. In fact, taking road trips isn’t even for the destination; it’s for the travel itself!

Today, we are all about celebrating the journey over the destination and a road trip is the epitome of that. Let’s take a look at some of the most scenic road trips in the U.S. plus some of the best stops along the way.

There are a ton of roads and scenic highways in the U.S. and it isn’t possible to include them on every list. Here’s my take on some of the most notable (in no special order), doing my best to spread them across the country in a way that includes the major regions. Let’s get started!

Blue Ridge Parkway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

1. Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most famous drives in all of the United States, potentially the world. In fact, it’s more than just a road; it’s a journey through the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia and North Carolina and is absolutely gorgeous. From north to south, it’s America’s longest linear park and one of the most popular destinations for campers, hikers, and day trippers.

Tip: Take the trip during peak season in the fall for some of the best views of your life.

The Parkway connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. It is at a high elevation most of the way and passes along rocky ridges, stunning valleys, and through some of the best forest land and farms along the east coast.

On top of the scenery, it’s a fantastic way to learn about the culture of Appalachia since there are countless towns, parks, museums, and attractions it takes you through or near on the journey. The Parkway spans 469 miles and can be driven in about 12 hours, but you’ll want to take your time and explore some of the best stops along the way.

Some of the most notable stops along the way include:

Natural Bridge (Milepost 61.6)
Peaks Of Otter (Milepost 86)
Mabry Mill (the most photographed site on the parkway) (Milepost 176.1)
Blue Ridge Music Center (Milepost 213)
Linville Falls (Milepost 316.4)
Little Switzerland (Milepost 334)
Mount Mitchell, the highest peak on the east coast (Milepost 355.4)

Route 66 *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

2. Route 66

Route 66 is pretty much THE symbol of America’s spirit of adventure and freedom. It was one of the first national highways for motor vehicles in the United States, established in 1926, and it ran from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California covering a total of 2,448 miles.

It crossed eight states and three time zones, all the while passing through some of the most diverse landscapes in the country. It also connected some smaller towns and rural communities that otherwise would have been isolated from the rest of the nation.

Route 66 became an icon in American popular culture. It had nicknames like the Mother Road and the Main Street of America. Many people drove along Route 66 during the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, and World War II when a huge country-wide migration to the west began. Later, it became a popular destination for tourists, bikers, and road trippers who wanted to experience authentic Americana along the way.

Route 66 was gradually replaced by the Interstate Highway System, however, and the last section of Route 66 was decommissioned in 1985. That being said, many parts of the original route still exist and are preserved as historic landmarks or designated as scenic byways. While the stops along the highway are mostly icons now, the drive itself is incredible unique and showcases tons of landscapes only found in those portions of America.

Some of the most notable stops along Route 66 are:

The Art Institute of Chicago (Illinois), the starting point of Route 66 where you can see a sign that says Begin Historic Route 66
Chain of Rocks Bridge (Missouri)
Cadillac Ranch (Texas)
Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona)
Wigwam Motel (Arizona)
Santa Monica Pier (California): The end point of Route 66 where you can see a sign that says End of the Trail

Scenic Byway 12 *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

3. Route 12 Utah

Route 12 in Utah is a 124-mile highway that runs from Bryce Canyon National Park to Capitol Reef National Park passing through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area along the way. Essentially, this trip is an outdoorsy person’s absolute paradise plus you get to drive on some incredibly scenic roads.

During the drive, you get incredible views of red rock formations, canyons, mountains, forests, deserts, and rivers. It takes about three hours to drive without stopping, but you’ll want to stop often. Many people even spend a week or two and take the time to hike and camp all around the parks nearby.

Some of the must-see spots along Route 12 Utah are:

Bryce Canyon National Park (Garfield County)
Red Canyon (Garfield County)
Kodachrome Basin State Park (Kane County)
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (Garfield / Kane Counties)
Calf Creek Falls (Garfield County)
Boulder Mountain (Wayne / Garfield Counties)
Capitol Reef National Park (Wayne County)

Worth Pondering…

Roads were made for journeys, not destinations.

—Confucius

Looking for Your Next Favorite Road Trip? You Need to Take a Scenic Byway!

Take a scenic byway on your next road trip

In This Land is Your Land, Woody Guthrie sang the words, “As I went walking that ribbon of highway / I saw above me that endless skyway.” If Guthrie was singing about some of the most beautiful ribbons of highway in the United States, there’s a good chance he was talking about one of the country’s scenic byways.

In both popular culture and our imaginations, we tend to romanticize road trips as epic journeys across the nation’s vast highways. The only problem is there’s nothing romantic about our nation’s highways. Either you’re sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic as you pass through a major metropolis or you’re the lone motorist on an eerily empty stretch of cornfield-lined pavement. We almost take for granted that the great American road trip should be on a highway—but we’re forgetting about a far more attractive alternative: scenic byways.

National Scenic Byways are officially designated roads that meet a set of government-defined criteria. To become a scenic byway, a road must be recognized for one or more of six intrinsic qualities which include archaeological, cultural, natural, historic, recreational, or scenic significance. As their name suggests, these roads are the most scenic way to see the country by far. Here’s why your next road trip should be on a scenic byway.

Amish Country Byway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The difference between a byway and a highway

On the surface, distinguishing a highway from a scenic byway might sound complicated. The differences, however, are quite obvious especially when you first make the switch from highways to byways. Highways are wide roads connecting big cities, built to facilitate the flow of heavy traffic. Though they can be found all over the country, they’re a staple of major metropolitan areas with high population density. Though highways are certainly the most efficient way to travel, they’re often not free with many requiring tolls to pass.

Byways, by contrast, tend to be narrower, secondary roads often located in rural areas. You won’t find scenic byways wrapping around major cities but rather serve as a means of connection for those living in less populated areas. They’re unstructured, unsurfaced, or even covered with grass.

The National Scenic Byways Program started in 1991 when Congress passed the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act which aimed to promote roads of special aesthetic or cultural significance. Some byways are even designated All-American Roads which must meet two (instead of just one) of the intrinsic qualities mentioned above. All-American Roads are considered to have unique features that can’t be found anywhere else in the US. Many even consider these roads to be destinations on their own.

Utah Scenic Byway 12 *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Why ride a byway?

If you still find yourself tempted by the efficient allure of the highway, there are plenty of reasons to give scenic byways a shot the next time you hit the road. The biggest benefit of scenic byways is the access they provide to local experiences like food, history, and scenery. From New Jersey to California and everywhere in between highways feel pretty homogenous. Byways don’t circumvent an area’s natural beauty in favor of efficiency— they take you through the heart of forests, mountains, and small towns giving you a reason to look out the window.

The Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia, for example, gives drivers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys and Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway in Maine gives you a sampling of Maine’s natural beauty: lakes, forests, farms, rivers, and wildlife. Meanwhile, the Mohawk Trail Byway in Williamstown, Massachusetts marks where Benedict Arnold led an army during the Revolutionary War, and where the Mohawk tribe battled the Pocumtucks. That’s a slice of culture you just can’t get on a highway.

Byways are also beneficial for local communities. Rather than spending your money at the McDonald’s in the highway rest stop, you’ll be passing through small towns. That means local shops, restaurants, and a warmer introduction to an area than you’d ever receive at a highway visitor center.

Trade the highway McDouble for some steak tips at a local barbeque joint. Rather than stretch your legs at a nondescript rest stop, park on a town’s Main Street and go exploring. A more intimate travel experience isn’t just beneficial for you but for the people living there too. Whether it’s patronizing family-owned restaurants, shopping at small boutiques, or filling up at an off-the-beaten-path gas station, the local economy will thank you.

Explore the byways

Now is actually the best time to start exploring the country’s scenic byways. These are a few byways you should keep on your radar for your next road trip.

Red Rock Scenic Byway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Arizona: Red Rock Scenic Byway

Winding through Arizona’s Red Rock Country, the Red Rock Scenic Byway is often called a museum without walls. Traversing incredible red rock and desert landscapes, State Route 179 runs south from Sedona through the Red Rock State Park to the junction with Interstate 17. There are also several trailheads accessed directly from the road offering numerous options for day hikes. Don’t miss the Cathedral Rock and the Bell Rock vista at the start of the southern trailhead.

If you need ideas, check out: Red Rock Scenic Byway: All-American Road

Alabama: Coastal Connection Scenic Byway

About 130 miles long, Alabama’s Coastal Connection showcases the best of the state’s Gulf Coast from quiet bays and wildlife-rich sanctuaries to immaculate white-sand beaches and historic forts. Alabama’s southern tip offers five different possible itineraries based on your interests, whether it’s history, food, or nature. The full route runs from Spanish Fort through Daphne and Fairhope via Magnolia Springs and Elberta to Orange Beach, along Gulf Shores to Dauphin Island and finishes in Grand Bay.

Check this out to learn more: Experience the Alabama Gulf Coast along the Coastal Connection Scenic Byway

Ohio: Amish Country Byway

Just 76 miles long, the Amish Country Byway might seem like a drive you can complete in a few hours but factor in the cultural and historic treasures dotted along the road and you’ll need at least a day. The road curves through and over the hills of pastoral countryside making it easy to forget about the trappings of modern life. Be sure to visit Amish museums, farms and antique shops, and enjoy some seriously good cooking in one of the many places to stop for a bite.

Here are some helpful resources:

Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

South Dakota: Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway

It twists and loops over just 70 miles yet this Black Hills byway is the perfect introduction to South Dakota’s breathtaking landscapes. The route is actually four interlacing roads including Needles Highway where the drive takes you through narrow tunnels and below towering granite pinnacles. It also cuts through Custer State Park where buffalo graze the fields and passes Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial.

For more tips on exploring this area, check out these blog posts:

Utah: Scenic Byway 12

At just under 123 miles, this All-American Road cuts through some of the state’s most spectacular scenery (and it’s up against some strong competition). Starting in Panguitch and unravelling east to Torrey, the road feels like it’s always been here curving past moon-grey mountains and ducking under peach-rock arches. Make a brief detour to see Escalante Petrified Forest, filled with fossilised trees.

Virginia: Colonial Parkway

Connecting three of Virginia’s most historically significant cities, the Colonial Parkway links Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown. Only 23 miles long, the byway is intended for sightseeing so is free of trucks and commercial vehicles and is still a remarkable example of such American parkway design.

Check this out to learn more: Live in Colonial Times: Experience the Revolution in a Revolutionary Way

Creole Nature Trail *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Louisiana: Creole Nature Trail

Alligators, over 400 bird species, marshlands teeming with life, 26 miles of natural Gulf of Mexico beaches, fishing, crabbing, Cajun culture, and more can be experienced as you travel along the 180-mile Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. Affectionately known as Louisiana’s Outback, the Creole Nature Trail is a journey into one of America’s Last Great Wildernesses. Download the free personal tour app (search “creole” in your app store.) Once on the trail, open the app and make sure your location is enabled. It’s like having a personal tour guide in the vehicle with you!

Here are some helpful resources:

Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Georgia: Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway

The beauty of the Chattahoochee National Forest surrounds this route as it encircles the headwaters of the Chattahoochee River. Winding through the valleys and mountain gaps of the southern Appalachians, you will find vistas atop Brasstown Bald that are jaw-dropping and the cooling mists of waterfalls are plentiful. Everywhere scenic wonders fill this region. Colorful wildflowers, waterfalls, and dazzling fall colors are some of what you will see. Hike the Appalachian Trail or fish in a cool mountain stream.

Cherohala Skyway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

North Carolina and Tennessee: Cherohala Skyway

The Skyway offers the cultural heritage of the Cherokee tribe and early settlers in a grand forest environment in the Appalachian Mountains. Enjoy mile-high vistas and brilliant fall foliage, as well as great hiking opportunities and picnic spots in magnificent and seldom-seen portions of the southern Appalachian National Forests. Popular stops along and near the Skyway include Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Santeetlah Lake, and many Cherokee sites. This byway in particular is known for its fall colors.

If you need ideas, check out:

North Carolina and Virginia: Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic roadway offering stunning long-range vistas and close-up views of the rugged mountains and pastoral landscapes of the Appalachian Highlands. The Parkway meanders for 469 miles, protecting a diversity of plants and animals and providing a variety of recreation opportunities for enjoying all that makes the Blue Ridge Mountains so special.

Here are a few great articles to help you do just that:

Worth Pondering…

I had spent the day, as Chuck Berry once sang, with no particular place to go. And getting there was half the fun.

The Great American Road Trip: Born in 1856

Whitman describes a trip on which he is embarking. He describes himself as being “healthy and free,” and he realizes he is the only person who is in complete control of his life; he chooses his own destiny.

Afoot and lighthearted I take to the open road,

Healthy, free, the world before me,

The long brown path before me leading wherever I choose.

Indian Creek Scenic Byway, Utah *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The Great American Road Trip was born in 1856 with the publication of Walt Whitman’s poem “Song of the Open Road.”

Or at least that’s how the idea of such a journey came into being since 164 years ago there were no states between Texas and California, let alone cars, highways, or motels. A traveler’s creature comforts back then consisted of liberty and opportunity.

Whitman saw the (future) American Road Trip as a metaphor for democracy. In the new republic, a man had the freedom to go anywhere.

But for decades after Whitman’s poem, America’s “long brown paths” went nowhere.

In 1903, when Dr. Horatio Nelson Jackson, his dog Bud, and a mechanic named Sewall Crocker set out in a red Winton touring car to claim America for the automobile, barely 150 miles of paved road existed in the entire country. A friend had wagered Jackson $50 that it would take him at least three months to drive from San Francisco to New York. In the end, it took 62 days of hard slogging.

Jackson’s feat quickly inspired imitators like the Murdocks, the first family to drive across America. In 1908, Jacob, Anna, and their three children successfully navigated the journey with the help of a personal mechanic for the car and a Winchester rifle for the coyotes.

Along Bush Highway, Arizona *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Not to be outdone, 22-year-old Alice Ramsey led the first all-female road trip in 1909, tearing across the country at speeds of up to 42 miles an hour—when not being towed by horses.

The road situation remained a literal mess when Dwight D. Eisenhower joined a military convoy on a trip across America in 1919. At times the drivers averaged a mere 6 miles an hour. Those two months on the road helped to convince the future president that a complete overhaul was needed. His answer was the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956 and the construction of the Interstate Highway System.

The law spurred millions of Americans to take to the open road—and legions of filmmakers and novelists to write about it.

Explaining the point of “On the Road” (1957), Jack Kerouac wrote that the novel tried to recapture a sense of meanings—embarking “on a tremendous journey through post-Whitman America to FIND that America.”

Driving Montgomery to Wetumka, Alabama *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

John Steinbeck took on a similar quest of rediscovery and reconnection—with his driving companion a poodle—and wrote about it in “Travels With Charley in Search of America” (1962). The author finished his journey with his hopes dashed, feeling lost, and worried about the rapid changes overtaking his country.

Still, Steinbeck fared better than most film characters who attempt the Great American Road Trip. In “Easy Rider” (1969), Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper are pursued by murderous bigots; in “Thelma and Louise” (1991), the problem seems to be every American male.

Fortunately, today’s family road trips don’t lack for human comforts—just a full tank of fuel and a great playlist.

But oh, the options today!

Smartphones or music players can plug directly into the RV’s sound system with a USB cable or auxiliary.

Mokee Dugway, Utah *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

And yet, there’s a lot to be gained from abandoning yourself to the mercies of local radio stations. It’s a chance to ride along, even briefly, with local color that’s otherwise passing too quickly outside the window—the DJ’s accent, charmingly quirky small town ads, music from artists not yet known beyond their part of the country.

Just a fleeting reminder that digital conveniences can deprive us of the analogue pleasure of immersing ourselves in somewhere new.

Worth Pondering…

The open road is a beckoning, a strangeness, a place where a man can lose himself.

3 Classic California Road Trips to Drive in Your Lifetime

California’s iconic sunshine, endless outdoor experiences, and ever-changing landscapes is your road trip dream come true

California is, hands down, one of the best places for a road trip. It’s the third largest state in the US and its 164,000 square miles are packed with glorious, varied terrain highlighted by 66 scenic byways. Rocky desert landscapes give way to rolling farmlands, and two-lane highways carve through quiet groves of towering sequoias before climbing into the high, rugged peaks of the 352 mountain ranges.

With all that, it’s no wonder you simply cannot get to know the Golden State unless you hit the road. We’ve gathered together three essential California road trips to get you started. Due to changing advisories, please check local travel guidelines before visiting.

Lassen Volcanic National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Redding to Lassen Volcanic National Park

Distance: 188 miles

Lassen Volcanic National Park and the area around form one of the more beautiful parts of California especially if you’re a mountain junkie who loves craggy peaks and volcanic rock. But it’s one that even locals often miss, partly because of its distance from major population centers. But those who make the trek should plan for a minimum of three days with plenty of day hikes and geologic curiosities—this is, after all, volcano country.

Sacramento River as seen from the Sundial Bridge in Redding *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Starting in Redding, a bustling city on the Sacramento River, travel north on 1-5 to Shasta Lake, the largest reservoir in California. Continue north on I-5, passing through the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and maybe stopping to take in the ragged spires at Castle Crags State Park before reaching Mount Shasta where you can stop to stroll through town or hike in the mountain’s foothills.

Then, escape from the interstate and head south on Highway 89. This section of the highway is actually part of the 500-mile Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway which travels from Oregon in the north down to Lassen along the Cascade Mountain Range. Take some time to hike McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park and see the 129-foot-tall waterfall that shares a name with the park. Or kayak and paddleboard on serene Lake Almanor. Finish your trip with a day, or two, wandering through Lassen Volcanic National Park which is filled with mud pots, geysers, lava fields, shield and cinder cone volcanoes, mountain lakes, and even a few green meadows where you’ll find wildflowers in the spring.

Along the Gold Rush Trail in Amador City *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Gold Rush Highway (Highway 49)

Distance: 295 miles

Follow in the footsteps of miners and prospectors through California’s Gold Country along Highway 49—a road named after the gold seekers or “49ers” who made their way to the state during the 1849 Gold Rush. Plan for five days to provide time to strike it rich panning for gold in the region’s rivers. You’ll want to spend time exploring the rocky meadows and pine-covered foothills of the Sierra Nevada too.

Start off with a history lesson at the California State Mining and Mineral Museum in Mariposa, just north of Oakhurst. As you drive north along the route, you’ll pass a number of Gold Rush–era buildings and towns.

In Coulterville, Hotel Jeffery, first built in 1851, is known for paranormal activities and claims John Muir and Theodore Roosevelt as past visitors. Jamestown’s Railtown 1897 Historic State Park gives a glimpse of what transportation was like in the late 1800s and Columbia State Historic Park and the town of Jackson are both well-preserved mining towns.

Highway 49 passes over the South Fork of the American River near Placerville which is a popular place for river rafting. A little farther north here, in Coloma, you can actually try your own luck with a gold pan at Sutter’s Mill in Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. Continue up through Auburn State Recreation Area where the north and middle forks of the American River meet stopping in Auburn’s Old Town and later Nevada City for Victorian-era homes and a little more historic charm.

From there Highway 49 heads northeast through Tahoe National Forest but there’s more mining history to see before you end in Vinton. Be sure to stop at Empire Mine in Grass Valley, one of the oldest, largest, deepest, longest, and richest gold mines in California.

Joshua Tree National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The Desert Drive

Distance: 290 miles

Plenty of travelers make the trip from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park to marvel at its spiky namesake trees. But many think of Joshua Tree as a destination and miss out on all the beautiful and sometimes quirky things the deserts of Southern California have to offer along the way. In fact, you should really spend a full week exploring the rock formations, wildflower meadows, art installations, and architectural hot spots of this region.

Starting in San Diego, point your vehicle northeast on Highway 163 to Highway 78 heading toward Julian, a year-round getaway for the day, a weekend, or longer. Julian is also well-known for its famous homemade apple pie served year-round. Born during the 1870s gold rush, Julian is a small town cradled in the mountains, surrounded by apple orchards.

Continue east to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, famous for its wildflower super blooms in the springtime. But even when the flowers aren’t blooming, the landscape is striking, with its badlands, slot canyons, and cactus forests. Near the park entrance, keep an eye out for the 130-foot prehistoric animal sculptures created by Ricardo Breceda.

Once you’ve explored the park, you can either head north on Highway 79 and cut through Anza en route to Palm Desert—the drive through wooded Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument is a nice break from the desert sun—or continue on Palm Canyon Drive toward the Salton Sea.

The Salton Sea is fascinating: It’s one of the world’s largest inland seas and is rapidly drying up. Skirt the southside of the body of water then make your way toward Slab City, an abandoned Navy base that’s become an off-grid living community and the massive, hand-built and brightly painted art piece Salvation Mountain just outside.

Salton Sea *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

From Slab City, take Highway 111 north to Palm Springs, an oasis of midcentury modern architecture that’s home to plenty of pools that provide respite from the heat. From Palm Springs, follow Highway 62 to Yucca Valley and Pioneer Town for a drink or a meal or maybe a concert at the famous saloon Pappy and Harriet’s. Joshua Tree has long attracted artists and bohemian types, so while there’s plenty of natural scenery to enjoy such as Jumbo Rocks or Skull Rock.

Worth Pondering…

There are not many places in the world where you can get to the beach in an hour, the desert in two hours, and snowboarding or skiing in three hours. You can do all that in California.

—Alex Pettyfer

Get in your RV and Go! Scenic Drives in America

Are you ready to pack up and hit some of the most scenic drives in America? Then get in your RV and go. These highways and byways are high on our bucket lists.

No mode of travel is more American than the road trip. It’s a national rite of passage. Getting tired of sitting at home? Get in your RV and go for a drive. America offers beautiful and breathtaking scenic drives you can take with the family. Some of the roadside attractions may still be closed because of the pandemic but the vistas are ever-present and beautiful as always.

There are dozens of travel quotes we could use to preface this list, but we’re going to assume that you already know that traveling isn’t always about where you end up―it is just as much about how you get there. With travel restrictions due to COVID-19, there has never been a better time to take a scenic drive just for the experience.

Dating back to Model T days, folks have been hitting the wide-open road to explore every nook and cranny of the 3,000 miles that lie from sea to shining sea. From mountain roads with hairpin turns to stunning seaside escapes to good ol’ Americana history, here are six epic road trips to travel this summer.

Historic Route 66 between Kingman and Oatman in Arizona *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Route 66: Illinois to California

During the 1940s and ’50s, the 2,500-mile stretch of road from Chicago to Santa Monica, California was the American road trip. That changed with the development of the interstate system which rerouted large portions of the highway to larger interstates.

Even so, tourists from around the globe still follow the famous path (or at least sections of it) past vintage neon signs, retro roadside motels, multiple national parks including the Petrified Forest and the Grand Canyon, as well as kitschy Americana stops such as Wigwam Village Motel in Holbrook, Arizona and cool art installations such as Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas.

Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Blue Ridge Parkway: Virginia and North Carolina

Spanning 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, this stunning parkway winds its way through the forested peaks that belong to some of the oldest mountains in America.

The area is lush and green through the spring and summer months, but the road is most spectacular in autumn when the rolling landscape is painted with fiery shades of red, yellow, and orange usually at its crest late-October to mid-November.

Route 89 in Utah *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Route 89: Arizona, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana

Far less famous than Route 66 but just as gorgeous, Route 89 is sometimes called the National Park to Park Highway. Truly ambitious road warriors can take the road less traveled by starting in Arizona, moving through Utah and up to Wyoming and Montana.

The highway passes 150 towns, cities, and reservations, seven national parks (including the Grand Canyon, Glacier, and Yellowstone), and three giant geographic regions (Basin and Range, Colorado Plateau, and the Rockies).

Amish Country Byway: Ohio

The 72-mile Amish Country Byway boasts views of natural vistas along winding curves and over rolling hills. On a map, routes 39, 62, 515, and 60 form a sort of “eyeglasses” shape throughout Holmes County. That’s fitting, because exploring these four roads is a great way to explore Amish Country.

Along these roadways, you will be treated to the typical, yet breathtaking sights of Amish Country: teams of huge, blonde Belgians pulling wagons of hay, farmers working in the fields, large white houses, and red barns. In addition, this charming country byway offers visitors a fine selection of Amish country cooking as well as historic sites featuring the history of Amish and German people. Because of the unique agriculture and culture of Amish Country, you must share the road with Amish buggies, agriculture equipment, and cyclists.

Scenic Byway 12: Utah

Utah is a place unlike anywhere else in the world! With so many sights to see, Scenic Byway 12 is the perfect road to take you right through the heart of it all. It passes through Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Boulder Mountain with gorgeous views at every turn in between.

This highway cuts right through the center of the state, making it the ideal route to take when you’re on an RV trip visiting Utah’s “Mighty Five” National Parks—Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce, Zion, and Capitol Reef.

El Camino Real: New Mexico

Historic Mesilla along El Comino Real *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

In 1598, Don Juan de Onate led 500 colonists through the remote and unfamiliar country now known as New Mexico. The route Onate followed became El Camino Real, “the royal road.”

The byway begins just north of Las Cruces, in Fort Selden, built in the mid-1800s to protect local settlers and travelers on El Camino Real and continues to cross 90 miles of flat but waterless and dangerous desert, the Jornada del Muerto (“journey of the dead man”) before reaching Socorro. The road then heads north to Albuquerque and Santa Fe reaching its end at San Juan Pueblo, the first capital of New Mexico and the end of Don Juan de Onate’s journey.

Worth Pondering…

The journey, and not the destination, is the joy of RVing.

Enjoy Arizona’s Beauty Year-Round!

It’s always postcard perfect somewhere in Arizona, no matter what time of year it is

In the high plains and elevation of Arizona, the changing of the seasons is always a wonder to experience. It’s often hard for visitors to imagine how different things can be one season to the next.

Grand Canyon Railway

This round trip departs from Williams around 65 miles south of the Grand Canyon. At first, it’s hard to marry the dense pine forests that surround the train with the desert colors of the landscape that waits. Eyes peeled for elk, coyotes, condors, and bald eagles, you’ll reach the popular South Rim a little over two hours later. If you choose to return the same day, you’ll have about four hours to marvel at its beauty; it’s understandably tempting to spend at least a night to more fully appreciate this wondrous natural phenomenon.

Canyon de Chelly National Park

Canyon de Chelly © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

A comparatively little-known canyon, Canyon de Chelly has sandstone walls rising up to 1,000 feet, scenic overlooks, well-preserved Anasazi ruins, and an insight into the present day life of the Navajo who still inhabit and cultivate the valley floor. The northernmost and southernmost edges are accessible from paved roads. The South Rim Drive offers the most dramatic vistas, ending at the most spectacular viewpoint, the overlook of Spider Rocks—twin 800-foot towers of rock isolated from the canyon walls.

Oak Creek Canyon

Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive is a 14 mile drive along Route 89A between Sedona and Flagstaff. Oak Creek Canyon is a breathtaking stretch of beauty on a winding road that climbs 4,500 feet from Sedona to the top of the Mogollon Rim. The scenic drive can ascend the canyon from Sedona or descend from Flagstaff. Either route is equally breathtaking as you slowly descend or ascend through picturesque forests.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Boyce Thompson Arboretum © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is the place to discover the intricate beauty and seasonal faces of Arizona. Encompassing 323 acres, the Arboretum is Arizona’s oldest and largest botanical garden. Featured are plants from the world’s deserts, towering trees, captivating cacti, mountain cliffs, a streamside forest, panorama vistas, natural habitats with varied wildlife, a desert lake, a hidden canyon, and specialty gardens.

Catalina Highway

The Catalina Highway, also known as the Sky Island Scenic Byway, climbs Mount Lemmon, the highest peak of the Santa Catalina Mountains. You won’t get all the way to the 9,100-foot summit on this drive, but don’t be surprised if the temperature at the end is 30 degrees lower than when you started your drive. And enjoy the cooler weather. Even in September, you might need a sweater.

Prescott

Nestled at an elevation of 5,200 feet above sea level amongst ponderosa pine, Prescott’s perfect weather provides an average temperature of 70 degrees with four beautiful and distinct seasons. Once the territorial capital, Prescott is rich with history embodied in its famous Whiskey Row and abundant historical landmarks. Enjoy breathtaking landscapes complete with mountains, lakes, streams, and meadows filled with wildlife.

Red Rock State Park

Red Rock State Park is a 286 acre nature preserve with stunning scenery. The creek meanders through the park, creating a diverse riparian habitat abounding with plants and wildlife. Trails wind through manzanita and juniper to reach the banks of Oak Creek. Green meadows are framed by native vegetation and hills of red rock.

Apache Trail

Some of the best scenery in central Arizona can be seen along the Apache Trail. A route for the adventurous traveler, the trail is partly paved with a section of the route graded dirt. Along a loop drive of 80 miles, you will find spectacular scenery to rival any in the state. The unpaved section of the trail provides magnificent views of the mountains with forests of saguaro and several deep blue lakes along the way.

Worth Pondering…

To my mind these live oak-dotted hills fat with side oats grama, these pine-clad mesas spangled with flowers, these lazy trout streams burbling along under great sycamores and cottonwoods, come near to being the cream of creation.

—Aldo Leopold, 1937

Blue Ridge Parkway: America’s Favorite Drive

Stretching for 469 miles of pure, breathtaking beauty, the Blue Ridge Parkway winds its way through the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains

A meandering road snaking for 469 miles along the crest of Blue Ridge Mountains from Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, the Blue Ridge Parkway provides access to more than 100 trailheads and over 300 miles of trails. It passes through a range of habitats that support more plant species than any other park in the country: over 4,000 species of plants, 2,000 kinds of fungi, 500 types of mosses and lichens, and the most varieties of salamanders anywhere in the world.

The nation’s first and longest rural parkway began as a 1930s depression-era public works project. Taking over 52 years complete, it was designed to simulate a park-like environment, blending natural surroundings and panoramic views with farms, streams, forests, and local culture.

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The Blue Ridge Parkway follows the Appalachian Mountain chain, twisting and turning through the beautiful mountains. From Shenandoah National Park, the scenic drive travels along the Blue Ridge Mountains for 355 miles. Then, for the remaining 114 miles, it skirts the southern end of the Black Mountains, weaves through the Craggies, the Pisgahs, and the Balsams before finally ending in the Great Smokies.

Enticing nature lovers, the Blue Ridge Parkway spans more than 70,000 acres of forest and includes 14 vegetation types, 1,600 vascular plant species, and 130 species of trees.

Taking a break along the way, visitors can stop at a visitor center and learn more about the area from the many exhibit and restored historical structures. The drive is long, but there are more than 100 trails along the Parkway for travelers to stretch their legs. In addition to hiking, the parkway also offers bird-watching opportunities, horseback riding, ranger guided walks, and nine campgrounds, on top of ample opportunity to photograph America’s Favorite Drive.

The magnificent views and historic attractions are too numerous to enjoy in just one trip which may be why the region attracts so many repeat visitors. It doesn’t matter whether you start from the north or south or anywhere in between—just don’t be surprised if you wander in and out of the parkway during your explorations.

You’ll need over a week on the Blue Ridge to adequately absorb all that surrounds you. With more than 260 overlooks, each stop provides one dramatic scene after another.

The road is narrow winding in some sections and tunnels have height restrictions, RVs of all sizes have been traveling the parkway for years. Of course, your everyday explorations will be best enjoyed using your dinghy; we based our coach in RV parks along the way, moving several times as we traveled south. The many entrances to the parkway allow you to enter or exit easily.

Entering the Blue Ridge Parkway at Rockfish Gap (milepost 0), our first stop was the visitor center at Humpback Rocks (milepost 5.8) where we gathered information and talked with the ranger on duty.

You’ll find a visitor center and campground with 24 RV sites at Otter Creek (milepost 60.8).

At the Peaks of Otter (milepost 85.6), another visitor center provides more park information. There, we also explored the Johnson Farm, restored to 1920s appearance.

Mabry Mill, Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Mabry Mill (milepost 176.1) is one of the parkway’s best-loved attractions. Surrounded by outdoor interpretive displays, a millpond smooth as glass reflects the old mill. The slowly turning waterwheel spills a small cascade of water into the pond while, inside the mill, park interpreters give demonstration on the workings of the gristmill.

The North Carolina section of the parkway starts at Milepost 216.9, outside of Cumberland Knob.

Moses H. Cone Memorial Park (milepost 294), preserves the country estate of Moses H. Cone, textile magnate, conservationist, and philanthropist of the Gilded Age. Its centerpiece is Flat Top Manor, a gleaming white 20-room, 13,000 square foot mansion built in 1901 in the grand Colonial Revival style. The Manor is now the home of the Parkway Craft Center.

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The Linn Cove Viaduct (milepost 304) hugs the face of Grandfather Mountain and is recognized internationally as an engineering marvel. This was the last section of the Parkway to be completed and a model of the construction technique highlights a visit to the Linn Cove Visitor Center.

A slight detour at milepost 355.4, via State Route 128, led us to the highest point east of the Mississippi River. At 6,684 feet, Mount Mitchell offers incredible views of color-washed lower elevations.

The Blue Ridge Parkway has six exits in the Asheville area. So there’s no excuse not to stop off in that charming city on your summer vacation and tour Biltmore Estate, the country’s largest private home.

The parkway south of Asheville to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its range of elevation. From about 2,500 feet, it gradually rises to 6,047 feet at the parkway’s highest point, Richland Balsam Gap, milepost 431, and then descends to just over 2,000 feet, all through the undeveloped beauty of national forest.

Worth Pondering…

Excuse me…but is this Heaven?

Road Trips Ratings: America’s Classic Routes Analyzed

If the prospect of going on a road trip around the U.S. seems like a cool thing to do this summer, a new study may be able to give you some inspiration for some good routes to take

The all-American road trip has been a great way to explore the country since the early 1900s, with certain routes becoming iconic vacations for seeing landmarks, visiting cities, and simply enjoying the open road.

But what does modern data tell us about the true appeal of these journeys? Geotab has used review ratings, traffic data, and a country-wide survey to score 50 classic routes.

Research shows how each route has its own strengths and appeal. Here is a selection of 16 dynamic trips highlighting different aspects of the results.

Monument Valley Trails

Monument Valley © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Awe-inspiring views of the rock formations of Monument Valley, Valley of the Gods, and Natural Bridges are enough to make this road trip an all-time classic.

Mesa Verde and San Juan Mountains

Mesa Verde © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Combining the best of both worlds, this trip starts out with an outdoor adventure in Mesa Verde and continues to the old mining towns of southern Colorado.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Dubbed “America’s Favorite Drive,” this scenic route attracts tourists from all over the country with its stunning scenery of the Appalachian Mountains.

Grand Canyon Road Trip

Grand Canyon © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The unforgettable canyon panoramas, the classic red rock desert, and the history preserved in the many mining and logging towns of Arizona are all preserved on this route that passes through one of America’s most recognizable—the Grand Canyon.

Bryce and Zion National Parks

Bryce Canyon © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

A spectacular adventure in the red rock country of southern Utah, it’s a tale of two national parks—Zion and Bryce—both offering breathtakingly beautiful sights.

Smoky Mountains

A journey through the enchanting landscapes of America’s most popular national park complete with plenty of opportunities to marvel at the breathtaking scenery.

Fall Foliage Drive

Vermont in autumn © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Best taken in autumn, this road trip showcases New England’s foliage in its colorful splendor. Stretching from Connecticut to New Hampshire there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration and taking in the beautiful scenery along the way.

US-1 in Florida

Kennedy Space Center © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Showcasing some of the best that Florida has to offer, this route has it all—the history of old Latin towns, the science of NASA’s Space Center, the thrill of the Daytona Speedway, and miles of beautiful beaches, of course.

Around the Big Bend

Big Bend National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Set in wilderness of West Texas, this road trip brings together the peaceful beauty of Big Bend National Park, the vast expanses of the Chihuahua Desert and the rustic vibe of the small ghost towns dotted along the highway.

Shenandoah’s Skyline Drive

Shenandoah National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Designed to provide unparalleled views of the surrounding land, the famous Skyline Drive offers picturesque countryside with stunning vistas, and beautiful scenery.

Texas Hill Country

One to challenge the fall foliage of New England, this road trip brings out the beauty of the Texan bluebonnets and other wildflowers, all the while offering ample opportunities to try the famous Texas BBQ and enjoy the local culture.

Black Hills of South Dakota

Black Hills © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

A trip into the wilderness of South Dakota’s Black Hills, this route offers a fascinating journey through the peaks and valleys complete with the Mount Rushmore monument.

Louisiana Cajun Country

Cajun Country © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

A fascinating journey into Acadiana, this road trip delves into the once French-speaking territory renown for the vibrancy of its culture, music, and food.

The Iconic Route 66

Starting in Chicago and ending on the California coast, this road trip takes you down the road once dubbed the “Main Street of America”. No longer a major artery of trade and commerce, it’s now a staple on many road trip bucket lists.

Pennsylvania Dutch Country

Lancaster County © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

This trip takes you around what was once an enclave of Dutch culture and language. Set mostly around Lancaster County, it offers a fascinating glimpse of the Amish lifestyle.

On the Gold Rush

Amador City along the Gold Rush Trail © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

A journey in the trails of the fortune-seekers panning for gold in the day of Gold Rush, this trip is set along CA 49 where the history of the Golden State unfolds in the many towns that once epitomized the land of promise and opportunity.

Worth Pondering…

It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.