There is something almost mystical about discovering a new destination while on a road trip; we’ll show you how to find the most scenic rides.
Imagine driving down twisted roads or pedaling through greenery and soaking in views that make every instant feel like a postcard.
But how do you go about looking for these gems?
Finding Scenic Rides
We’ll share realistic techniques to find the most scenic roadways and paths–no matter your destination.
Ready to transform into a visual memoir the next time you make your getaway? Then read on!
Begin with a Search Online
The first step to noticing scenic routes is grabbing information from online resources. Travel blogs, forums, and social media are great for exploring recommendations made by fellow travelers.
Apps and websites on road trips and cycling routes provide excellent references as they may present detailed maps and suggested itineraries.
Take some time and go through these resources to compile a short list of possible routes.
You will find commonly known scenic drives and perhaps hidden attractions not working their way into general promotion.
Some sleuthing certainly gives this particular scenic ride a start.
Make Inquiries from Locals
Nobody knows the city better than the locals.
Put things in motion, asking residents of the area, be it local business owners or even influencers you find on social media, as they might be great people to uncover hidden spots not advertised on major travel websites.
Most of the time, hidden scenic routes are practically unvisited, thus making them great for visiting for a drive.
The local tourism offices and visitor centers will often have ideas, so popping in might be worthwhile.
Many will hand out maps and recommend scenic routes that will meet your goals, whether a mountain or a coastal drive.
The “When” Makes All the Difference
One very big “when” makes all the difference when it comes to the enjoyment of a scenic ride.
Early morning and late afternoon are the times when natural light is the best for photography.
Another bonus is that these are the times when it is usually quieter, allowing you to soak in the views in peace.
Lastly, always take a look at the local weather forecast a day or two before leaving.
Weather can affect visibility and the overall charm of a route, so it is always worth planning a ride for the ideal conditions.
Make Use of Technology and Community Wisdom
Never has there been a better time for technology and Internet communities to help you with finding scenic drives.
Google Maps and Street Views
Google Maps is useful not just for directions but also for previews of scenic roads. The scenery along the contender highways passing through varied landscapes can be viewed for comparison.
Even Street View allows you to do a virtual tour along one of the potential roads and evaluate its scenic appeal before you head off.
Reddit Communities for Hidden Gems
In addition, forums such as r/roadtrip and travel groups look for actual travels occasionally. Members share their suggestions for scenic drives, under-the-radar backroads, and hidden view spots.
These avenues can lead you to routes not extensively known through conventional travel guides. Instead, drop in a question about your destination, and you’ll get customized tips from fellow experienced travelers.
For example, if you’re traveling to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, you may find suggestions for taking a drive through the Great Smoky Mountains.
An example ride could be the Cades Cove Loop, renowned for stunning mountain views and some of the best rides in Pigeon Forge.
You may want to read this if you are planning a trip to Pigeon Forge.
Check Travel Guides and Local Resources
Travel guides and local sources will come in handy when looking for scenic routes.
Travel Publications: Well-known magazines and online publications such as National Geographic Traveler and Lonely Planet frequently profile breathtaking scenic drives around the globe. Insight from these articles allows you to plan your trip and discover new routes that you might have otherwise passed over.
Local Tourism Boards: Specific local tourism offices are setting up great sources of insider knowledge. Most provide maps, pamphlets, and expert comments regarding scenic routes you may never find in generic guides. Some even have tourist-designated scenic drives where they ensure you are taken to see the major sights.
If you use any navigation app, take note of the option for scenic routes to be prioritized rather than pairs by the fastest route possible to your destination.
Some apps let you pick from several possibilities ranked by aesthetics, be it mountain views, coastal highways, or countryside roads.
Apps with community-driven features like Waze will also allow users to share routes, meaning you can get the inside scoop on those unforgettable roads that haven’t made it into the guides.
Beyond their convenience, these apps will turn your drive into an unforgettable experience by choosing scenic options.
Keep the Balance
Finding the most scenic rides while traveling depends on striking a balance between research, local input, and technology.
Be it mountain passes, coastal highways, or countryside roads, the environments providing spectacular scenery are endless.
By harnessing online route planners, travel guide resources, and local recommendations, you’ll find roads that beautify your journey as much as the destination itself.
Sometimes, the best viewing experiences come as you leave your comfort zone and put the explorer hat on. We encourage slow travel on your scenic rides so that you may fully embrace every new adventure!
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
Not necessarily! Some scenic routes might add only a few extra minutes, while others could take significantly longer. Navigation apps like Google Maps and Roadtrippers let you compare scenic options with the fastest route.
It depends on your destination. Fall is ideal for foliage-filled mountain drives, while spring brings wildflower blooms to countryside roads. Coastal routes tend to be great year-round but are less crowded in the shoulder seasons.
Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, bring snacks, charge your phone, and download offline maps in case of limited cell service. If you’re biking, pack plenty of water and safety gear. You can also check out Must-Have Gifts for Road Warriors.
