Venture through some of the most challenging yet rewarding drives across the USA. From winding mountain passes to remote desert roads, these 22 routes will test your driving skills while offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a road trip enthusiast, these drives are not to be missed. Buckle up and get ready to explore the best of America’s toughest terrains.
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Pacific Coast Highway, California
Stretching over 600 miles, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is known for its dramatic cliffs, stunning ocean views, and winding roads. This iconic route takes you through diverse landscapes, including redwood forests, seaside towns, and rugged coastlines. The PCH challenges drivers with its sharp turns and narrow sections but rewards them with some of the most breathtaking scenery in California.
Tail of the Dragon, Tennessee/North Carolina
The Tail of the Dragon boasts 318 curves in just 11 miles, making it a haven for motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts. Located on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, this route runs through the Great Smoky Mountains and provides thrilling twists and turns, surrounded by dense forest and scenic vistas.
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
This 50-mile route through Glacier National Park offers spectacular views of rugged mountains, glacial lakes, and alpine scenery. The narrow road has sharp curves and steep drop-offs, making it a challenging drive. The highlight is the climb over Logan Pass, which reaches an elevation of over 6,600 feet.
Moki Dugway, Utah
A 3-mile stretch of gravel switchbacks, the Moki Dugway climbs 1,200 feet from the valley floor to the top of Cedar Mesa. Located in southeastern Utah, this road is not for the faint-hearted, with sheer drop-offs and no guardrails. The breathtaking views of Valley of the Gods and Monument Valley are worth the nerve-wracking drive.
Beartooth Highway, Montana/Wyoming
Regarded as one of the most beautiful drives in America, Beartooth Highway stretches for 68 miles between Montana and Wyoming. The road climbs to an elevation of 10,947 feet, providing panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, alpine plateaus, and glacial lakes. Its high elevation and steep grades make it a challenging drive, especially in inclement weather.
Million Dollar Highway, Colorado
This 25-mile section of U.S. Route 550 between Ouray and Silverton is known for its narrow lanes, hairpin turns, and lack of guardrails. The route offers jaw-dropping views of the San Juan Mountains, deep gorges, and cascading waterfalls. The Million Dollar Highway tests drivers’ skills while providing an unforgettable scenic experience.
Highway 1, Big Sur, California
Running through the rugged Big Sur coastline, this portion of Highway 1 is famous for its dramatic ocean views, towering cliffs, and winding roads. The route features several narrow sections and sharp turns, making it a challenging but rewarding drive. Highlights include Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia/North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway meanders for 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, offering stunning vistas, lush forests, and serene meadows. The road’s numerous curves and elevation changes make it a challenging drive. It’s particularly beautiful in the fall when the foliage transforms into vibrant colors.
Route 163, Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah
Route 163 takes you through the heart of Monument Valley, with its iconic red sandstone buttes and mesas. The road’s unique landscape has been featured in numerous films and photographs. The drive includes long stretches of open road, sudden changes in elevation, and the occasional sandstorm, providing a true adventure.
Hana Highway, Maui, Hawaii
The Hana Highway is a 64-mile stretch of road with over 600 curves and 59 bridges, many of which are one-lane. The route winds through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and along rugged coastlines. The road’s narrow and winding nature makes it a challenging drive, but the scenery is absolutely stunning.
Pikes Peak Highway, Colorado
This 19-mile road to the summit of Pikes Peak climbs over 6,000 feet in elevation, reaching a height of 14,115 feet. The route includes hairpin turns, steep grades, and no guardrails. The drive offers panoramic views of the Rockies and the plains below, making it a thrilling and rewarding experience.
Dalton Highway, Alaska
Stretching 414 miles from Fairbanks to Deadhorse, the Dalton Highway is one of the most remote and challenging roads in North America. The route crosses the Arctic Circle and traverses rugged terrain, including the Brooks Range. The gravel road is often icy and rough, but the isolation and stunning Arctic scenery make it the adventure of a lifetime.
U.S. Route 50, Nevada (The Loneliest Road in America)
Dubbed “The Loneliest Road in America,” U.S. Route 50 in Nevada spans 287 miles through desolate desert landscapes. The road is remote, with long stretches of open space and minimal services. The challenge comes from the isolation and the stark beauty of the Nevada desert, making it a unique and rewarding drive.
Skyline Drive, Virginia
Skyline Drive runs 105 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park. The route features 75 overlooks offering panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Piedmont region. Its numerous curves, elevation changes, and wildlife crossings make it a challenging drive, especially in foggy conditions.
Needles Highway, South Dakota
The Needles Highway is a 14-mile stretch of South Dakota Highway 87 that winds through the Black Hills. The road features narrow tunnels, sharp turns, and granite spires that resemble needles. It’s a challenging drive due to its tight spaces and sharp curves, but the stunning rock formations and forests make it a must-see.
White Rim Road, Canyonlands National Park, Utah
This 100-mile loop road traverses the White Rim sandstone formation, offering incredible views of Canyonlands National Park. The unpaved road is rugged and requires a high-clearance, 4WD vehicle. Steep inclines, narrow sections, and the remote location make it a challenging but awe-inspiring drive.
Denali Highway, Alaska
The Denali Highway stretches 135 miles from Paxson to Cantwell, offering stunning views of the Alaska Range and glacial valleys. The mostly gravel road is rough and remote, with limited services and few travelers. The isolation and rugged terrain make it a challenging drive, but the pristine wilderness and wildlife sightings are worth it.
The High Road to Taos, New Mexico
This 56-mile scenic byway connects Santa Fe and Taos, winding through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The route features steep climbs, sharp turns, and narrow lanes. The drive offers beautiful views of mountains, high deserts, and historic villages, making it a rewarding journey.
Route 66, Illinois to California
The historic Route 66 spans nearly 2,500 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. While not particularly challenging in terms of terrain, the drive’s length, varying road conditions, and historic significance make it a must-do. The route offers a nostalgic journey through Americana, with diverse landscapes and quirky roadside attractions.
Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi to Tennessee
This 444-mile scenic drive follows the historic Natchez Trace, a trade route used by Native Americans and early settlers. The parkway features gentle curves, rolling hills, and lush forests. While not overly challenging, the drive’s length and historic significance make it a rewarding experience.
Highway 12, Utah
Highway 12, also known as Scenic Byway 12, runs for 124 miles through southern Utah’s stunning landscapes. The route passes through Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks, offering dramatic views of red rock formations and canyons. Its winding roads and elevation changes make it a challenging and picturesque drive.
Seward Highway, Alaska
The Seward Highway stretches 127 miles from Anchorage to Seward, offering breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and coastal landscapes. The route features steep grades, sharp turns, and frequent wildlife crossings. The stunning Alaskan scenery and the drive’s challenges make it an unforgettable journey.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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