Edisto Island Scenic Byway

The Best Scenic Drives in the South (2025)

The South is full of natural beauty and road trips are one of the best ways to experience it. Any of these scenic drives will take you past stunning landscapes and breathtaking views. So, grab your road trip essentials, fill up with fuel, and hit the road!

The South’s best scenic drives invite travelers to experience the landscape up close as they wind through small cities and tiny towns, beaches and mountains, rolling countryside and deep forests.

Some of these drives are short, others are much longer, but no matter the length of your getaway, don’t forget to allow some time for side trips. Small towns, state parks, hiking trails, and historic markers await travelers willing to make a stop and set out on a rambling route to somewhere new.

Keep the camera handy because panoramic vistas, fields of wildflowers, and sandy beach scenes are just some of the sights to look for and marvel at as you navigate these scenic drives across the South. Once you’ve begun the drive, you’ll know that on these memorable Southern routes the journey truly is the destination.

Cherohala Skyway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

1. Cherohala Skyway, North Carolina and Tennessee

43-mile National Scenic Byway from Tellico Plains, Tennessee to Robbinsville, North Carolina

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.

Here are some articles to help:

Magnolia Plantation along Ashley River Road *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

2. Ashley River Road National Scenic Byway, South Carolina

13-mile National Scenic Byway from the start of the Ashley River to Charleston

Driving the Ashley River Road National Scenic Byway (SR 61) will allow you to experience the rural beauty around Charleston and learn about the area’s history. In addition to towering trees with Spanish moss, you can expect to see historic structures including plantations that survived the Civil War in this exploration of the South Carolina Lowcountry.

The Ashley River Road National Scenic Byway is a historic route in South Carolina that follows the Ashley River and is known for its scenic beauty and rich history. The byway is approximately 13 miles long and can be driven in about 18 minutes though visitors often spend much longer exploring the numerous historic sites along the way.

It was established in 1691 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983 with the designation of a National Scenic Byway coming in 2000. The road is lined with moss-draped live oak trees and passes by significant landmarks such as St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Drayton Hall, Magnolia Plantations and Gardens, and Middleton Place which are all National Historic Landmarks

Jim Beam American Stillhouse *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

3. Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway, Kentucky

67-mile scenic drive from Hodgenville to Danville

Here’s a must-do for every American history buff. Explore the land of Honest Abe’s youth as well as several significant Civil War sites. Learn what Lincoln’s log cabin life was really like at the Lincoln Museum in Hodgenville, Kentucky; then visit Lincoln’s birthplace and the original Lincoln Memorial at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park.

If you’re so inclined, you can pair these educational adventures with a stop or two at one of the many breweries and distilleries the area is famous for such as Jim Beam’s American Stillhouse.

Amelia Island along A1A Scenic Coastal Byway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

4. A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway, Florida

72-mile All American road from Ponte Vedra Beach to Flagler Beach

Its 72 miles of mostly two-lane roadway navigate nature’s beauty, history, and serenity. The land and waters on either side of the byway have been part of the sweep of American history, nature, archaeology, and recreation for nearly 500 years. The byway connects State Parks, National Monuments, stunning beaches, nature trails, boating, fishing, preserves, and estuaries.

From the northern boundary of St. Johns County, the byway bisects the seaside luxury and golf mecca of Ponte Vedra Beach then weaves through America’s oldest city, St. Augustine, then through communities like Butler Beach, Crescent Beach, and Marineland and eventually ending in Flagler County at the Gamble Rogers Memorial Park on Flagler Beach.

This is one of the premier byways for the history lover as the whole town of St. Augustine is packed with historical sites dating from the Spanish conquest in the 1400s up to the Civil Rights protests in the 1960s.

Edisto Island *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

5. Edisto Island National Scenic Byway, South Carolina

13.5-mile National Scenic Byway from McKinley Washington Bridge to Edisto Beach

The Edisto Island National Scenic Byway (Highway 174) slices through the center of this largely unspoiled barrier island which seems to have stopped the clock half a century ago. This Edi-slow travel experience begins at the foot of the McKinley Washington Bridge which spans the Intracoastal Waterway and ends 13.5 miles later at the Atlantic Ocean on Edisto Beach.

Along the Byway there is much to soothe the spirit and awaken the senses. Traveling through tunnels of moss-draped live oak canopies, the Byway opens to expansive marsh vistas with meandering creeks, ever changing with the tides and the seasons. You may spot bald eagles, egrets, wood storks, osprey, hawks, and herons or catch a glimpse of songbirds, mammals, and reptiles as the Byway rambles past tidal creeks, maritime forests, farm fields, roadside markets, conserved lands, and historic churches and buildings.

The Byways many points of interest tell the story of a community of people living and working on the island, many with roots that go back to the late 1600s.

Alabama Coastal Connection National Scenic Byway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

6. Alabama’s Coastal Connection National Scenic Byway, Alabama

130-mile National Scenic Byway from Spanish Fort through Daphne and Fairhope via Magnolia Springs and Elberta to Orange Beach along Gulf Shores to Dauphin Island to Grand Bay

Beautiful beaches, authentic downtowns, wildlife preserves, historic sites and fresh-off-the-boat seafood are all yours to enjoy along Alabama’s Coastal Connection. Experience the link between the traditions of the Deep South and laid-back island lifestyle and connect with the waters, ways and wildlife of Alabama’s Gulf Coast. View our website to see sample itineraries of the area. We hope they’ll give you some ideas about everything we offer on the Alabama Gulf Coast.

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

7. Creole Nature Trail, Louisiana

180-mile All American Road from Sulphur through Holly Beach and Cameron to St. Charles

One place in Southwest Louisiana that never ceases to amaze is the Creole Nature Trail, a 180-miles-long scenic byway where natural wonderlands abound. Affectionately known as Louisiana’s Outback, the Creole Nature Trail is a journey into one of America’s Last Great Wildernesses.

Part of America’s Byway’s system, the Creole Nature Trail is known for its distinct waters, pristine blue skies, and stops along the drive adorned with plenty of wildlife and bird watching that can either fill an entire weekend or simply a day trip. Featuring stops of picturesque landscapes beyond transcription, the Creole Nature Trail, an All American Road, sees hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, all passing through this delicate ecosystem.

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

8. Russell Brasstown Scenic Byway, Georgia

40-mile National Scenic Byway from Robertstown to Brasstown Bald and Helen

If you’re drawn to majestic mountain scenery, enjoy a scenic drive through the Russell Brasstown Scenic Byway. This route which takes you deep within the Chattahoochee National Forest travels past sections of the Appalachian Trail through Helen, Georgia’s little slice of Bavaria, up to Brasstown Bald, and past Vogel and Unicoi State Parks.

Visitors can enjoy the 360 degree views from atop Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s tallest mountain, or escape at one of the byways numerous waterfalls. Beautiful waterfalls and secluded views are just a short hike off the main road.

Road trip planning

Road trips take a little planning. Here are a few tips that will help make your scenic road trip a success:

There is so much to see and do in the South

The South is home to many fascinating, attractive, and unusual destinations. Because the Southern states occupy a significant portion of the United States, anybody planning extensive travel in the country will inevitably find themselves in the region sometime. Once you arrive, you will be in for a real treat.

Worth Pondering…

The journey not the arrival matters.

—T. S. Eliot

Why Edisto Beach is the Most Effortless Vacation

Two words: Effortless! Vacation!

Effortless vacation! Two words that define what travel dreams are made of.

Edisto Beach *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

At the magnificently natural Edisto Beach in South Carolina, no planning is needed. Simply show up and let this hidden gem of a coastal destination draw you in with its slower pace and tourist-free feel.

There has never been a better time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors than now. Edisto Beach has long been a spectacular place to enjoy all of nature’s beauty while enjoying outdoor activities to keep your heart (and mind!) healthy. You can hike, bike, or run on Edisto whether you’re a seasoned fitness expert or just a fan of the leisurely stroll. There are walking paths, hiking, biking, kayaking, and paddleboarding options. Edisto is sure to offer something that matches exactly what you have in mind.

Edisto Island Scenic Byway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Edisto Island National Scenic Byway

A self-guided tour along the National Scenic Byway is a must when visiting Edisto and you don’t have to go out of your way to find it. It’s simply a part of the drive on SR-174 onto the island. From man-made attractions like the Edisto Mystery Tree and the Edisto Swinging Mattress to structures with historical significance like beautiful churches and plantations, the National Scenic Byway takes you through more sights than a typical tour guide could cover in a day.

Allow yourself to be taken back by history as you pass under majestic live oaks paving your journey and don’t forget to scope out the vast intercoastal waterway as you cross the bridge onto Edisto.

Not a bad way to start an effortless vacation ripe with relaxation.

Event Calendar of Festivals and Fun

What do dancing, fishing, and BBQ all have in common? Edisto hosts several festivals to celebrate all the Lowlands. Dance under the stars at the Edisto Beach Shag Fest. Join in the competition or watch the weigh-in as larger-than-life billfish are brought to shore for the annual Edisto Governors Cup Billfish Tournament. Or, if eating is one of your favorite past-times, you won’t want to miss out on the mouthwatering BBQ competition that hosts world-renowned Pitmasters at the Cookin on the Creek BBQ Festival.

Endless Natural Wonders to Enjoy

From eco-tours to fishing charters, Edisto has something for everyone looking to be one with nature no matter what that entails for each individual.

Some ideas:

Explore Edisto Beach State Park’s 1,200-plus acres by bike or foot
Join a kayak creek tour
See natural relics of the past at the undisturbed Boneyard Beach
Ride horses through Botany Bay’s 4,500-plus acres of preserved plantation land or self-tour via car
Take a sunset cruise around the island

Fun on the Beach

Edisto Beach has 37 public beach accesses located at each intersection on Palmetto Boulevard providing access to the Atlantic Ocean. Some provide off-street parking and dune walkovers. Most beach accesses cross over a dune feature.

At Edisto Beach you can bring your dog and the leash law is only in effect May through October. Without hotels or crowded shorelines, Edisto offers miles of beach to explore and plenty of room to spread out.

Land of Turtles and Egrets

Wildlife is protected and plentiful on Edisto. Loggerhead Turtles return each year between May and August to nest. Through October, the baby sea turtles hatch and find their way back to the ocean. Dolphins, pelicans, egrets, herons, and other shorebirds are also plentiful on Edisto. Keep an eye on the ocean while you are here and you’ll likely earn a glimpse of dolphins gracefully breaking the water with their dorsal fins. Drive carefully at night on the Island’s side roads as deer may be crossing.

Explore Edisto Beach via Bike Paths

Edisto Beach is laden with opportunities to get out and stretch your legs or peddle along the many bike paths and hiking trails. More than four miles of paved bike paths meander throughout the area with views of the beach, marsh, and naturally wooded areas. The bike path also takes you past boutique shops, restaurants, and grocery stores.

Camping at Edisto Beach State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Enjoy Nature at Edisto Beach State Park

Edisto Beach State Park offers access to the Atlantic Ocean and beach. It also provides access to the saltwater marsh and creeks. The park is a nesting area for loggerhead sea turtles. Edisto Beach State Park features trails for hiking and biking that provide an interesting tour of the park. The park’s environmental education offers exhibits that highlight the natural history of Edisto Island and the surrounding ACE Basin.

Birding at Edisto Beach State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

For overnight accommodations, furnished cabins sit nestled in the woods and campsites can be found along the Edisto Island oceanfront or in the shaded maritime forest. Camping with water and electrical hookups is available ocean-side or near the salt marsh. Several sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet. Each campground is convenient to restrooms with hot showers.

Botany Bay Plantation *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Enjoy Nature at Botany Bay Plantation

If you want to see the South Carolina coast the way the original settlers did, take a step back in time to Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve located adjacent to the waters of the Atlantic Ocean in the northeast corner of Edisto Island. The 3,363-acre preserve includes almost three miles of undeveloped, breathtaking beachfront. Botany Bay is very accessible; you can tour most of the property in half a day or less. The 6.5-mile route begins along a magnificent avenue of oaks interspersed with loblolly pine and cabbage palmetto.

Take a Day Trip

There’s, even more, to do just a few miles from Edisto. Check out the surrounding beaches, state parks, wildlife areas, historic plantations in locations like Charleston, Beaufort, Port Royal, and Hilton Head Island.

Worth Pondering…

I am southern—from the great state of South Carolina. They say, ‘You can take the girl out of the South, but you can’t take the South out of the girl.’ And it’s true.

—Ainsley Earhardt

A Byway Is Calling

America’s byways are gateways to adventures where no two experiences are the same

America’s byways provide unparalleled opportunities to experience the cultural, historical, ecological, recreational, or scenic qualities of the area.

There are several designations used to honor these routes. The most common type of designation is the National Scenic Byway, though there are also state scenic byways.

If a particular scenic byway is especially outstanding, it may also be recognized with the additional title of “All-American Road.”

Find the routes of your choice and get ready to hit the open road.

Arizona: Red Rock Scenic Byway

Red Rock Scenic Byway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserve

All-American Road

Length: 7.5 miles

Take 20 minutes to drive, but allow several hours to include all activities along the byway.

All-American Road Red Rock Scenic Byway winds through Sedona’s Red Rock Country, often called a “museum without walls.” Travelers are amazed by the high desert’s power, diversity, and sense of intimacy with nature. Inhabited for thousands of years, the stunning red rocks are alive with a timeless spirit that captivates and inspires.

Ohio: Amish Country Byway

Amish Country Byway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserve

National Scenic Byway

Length: 76.2 miles

Allow 1-2 days to enjoy the byway, or 3-4 hours to drive it.

Discover the cultural and historic treasures of the Amish and northern Appalachian people as you wend through curves and over the hills of the pastoral countryside. Experience simple living and sustainability along charming country roads, taking you to a bygone era still present, manifest in the people and their lifestyle.

South Dakota: Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway

Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserve

National Scenic Byway

Length: 68 miles

Allow four hours to drive the byway or one day to experience the entire byway.

This byway will lead you on a delightful adventure as it winds its way around spiraling “pig-tail” shaped bridges, through six rock tunnels, among towering granite pinnacles and over pristine, pine-clad mountains. Highlights include Mount Rushmore, Harney Peak, Sylvan Lake, the Needle’s Eye, and Cathedral Spires rock formations.

Virginia: Colonial Parkway

Colonial Parkway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserve

All-American Road

Length: 23 miles

One hour to drive the byway.

The Colonial Parkway not only illustrates the English colonial experience in America, but is also an outstanding example of American parkway design. Retaining its original scenic and historic integrity to a remarkable degree, the 23-mile route connects the historic sites of Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown.

South Carolina: Edisto Island National Scenic Byway

Edisto Island Scenic Byway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserve

National Scenic Byway

Length: 16 miles

Drive the Edisto Island Scenic Byway and enjoy the peaceful barrier Edisto Island provides from the hectic 21st Century world of today. The route traverses salt marsh, creeks, maritime forests, farm fields, and historic churches from the Intracoastal Waterway to the Atlantic Ocean. Stop at a roadside stand and buy a handmade sweetgrass basket, fill it with fresh local produce at a roadside market and fresh seafood dockside.

Go for a picnic on the beach, keeping an eye out for dolphin and horseshoe crabs. Go shelling. But most of all, take your time and breathe deep: this “Edis-slow ramble” is a visual delight, with much that will soothe the spirit and awaken the senses.

North Carolina and Virginia: Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue Ridge Parkway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserve

All-American Road

Length: 469 miles

Four days to enjoy the byway

The Parkway provides spectacular mountain and valley vistas, quiet pastoral scenes, sparkling waterfalls, and colorful flower and foliage displays as it extends through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and North Carolina.

Worth Pondering…

There is adventure in any trip; it’s up to us to seek it out.

—Jamie Francis