The allure of the open road is a siren call for many travelers. While iconic routes like California’s Pacific Coast Highway or the picturesque Route 66 are often touted as must-drives, the US is home to countless lesser-known scenic routes that are equally enchanting. These roads, often hidden away from the limelight, offer the intrepid traveler a chance to experience the country’s diverse landscapes and unique regional cultures without the throngs of tourists. If you are seeking the perfect vehicle for your next journey, check out A Better Bid Richmond and choose the right car for you.
The Green Mountain Byway, Vermont
Ideal Car: Subaru Outback
Nestled in the heart of Vermont, the Green Mountain Byway is a visual treat, especially during the fall. The 11-mile stretch meanders through forests bursting with autumn colors, traditional farms, and quaint little towns. An all-wheel-drive Subaru Outback is perfect for this route. Its high ground clearance and comfort features will let you explore every nook and cranny with ease.
The Green Mountain Byway trip offers a glimpse of New England’s charm at its most charming. This path will take you through a tranquil setting of undulating hills and glistening streams. Many overlooks and pull-offs tempt tourists to pause and take in the expansive splendor along the route. A well-liked rest stop, the town of Waterbury, is a veritable gold mine of regional history, artisanal boutiques, and delectable cuisine. You’ll come across meandering water streams and covered wooden bridges, which add a touch of nostalgia and give the drive a sense of nostalgia. This byway is proof of the eternal charm of Vermont’s countryside with its rich tapestry of environment and culture.
Big Bend Scenic Byway, Florida
Ideal Car: Convertible Ford Mustang
This route offers a unique blend of coastal and forest views. Traversing along the Gulf of Mexico and the Apalachicola National Forest, the byway boasts 220 miles of pristine landscapes. To feel the ocean breeze and enjoy unobstructed views, drop the top of a Ford Mustang Convertible and drive at a leisurely pace.
The Big Bend Scenic Byway’s kaleidoscope of natural delights becomes more and more obvious as you go further along it. The road leads to peaceful marshlands rich with a variety of birdlife as it winds past ancient oak canopies covered with Spanish moss. Every turn reveals isolated beaches ideal for a peaceful pit stop, as well as sights of the Gulf’s glistening seas. The route’s coastal communities, such as Carrabelle and St. Marks, provide a rich maritime past complete with quaint lighthouses and fishing boat-filled harbors. For the food traveler, oyster bars and seafood restaurants offer gastronomic delights with their catch-of-the-day specials. The Big Bend Scenic Byway is more than just a road trip; it’s a journey into the untamed coastal environment of Florida.
Sky Island Scenic Byway, Arizona
Ideal Car: Jeep Wrangler
Dramatic elevation changes, desert landscapes, and diverse ecosystems define this 27-mile drive. The Jeep Wrangler, with its rugged off-road capabilities, is your companion of choice. It’s perfect for detours on unmarked trails and the convertible top lets you bask in the Arizona sun.
The Sky Island Scenic Byway exposes a varied trip into the center of Arizona’s biodiverse regions beyond the initial draw of the arid landscape. The route takes you through a number of natural transformations as it ascends from the Sonoran Desert floor, concluding in Mount Lemmon’s cold alpine surroundings. Along the trip, old river canyons reveal their secrets, and the ever-changing flora includes everything from massive saguaro cacti to deep pine forests. Awe-inspiring panoramic views of large valleys and far-off ridges may be seen from viewpoints like Windy Point Vista. The temperature dips as the route ascends the mountain, offering a cool respite from the desert’s heat. The dynamic interaction between altitude and habitat unravels with each bend and twist of the Sky Island Scenic Byway, making the trip as magical as the destination.
The Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi
Ideal Car: Toyota Prius
This ancient trail, once used by Native Americans and early settlers, runs for 444 miles and offers a calm, traffic-free drive through history. The Toyota Prius, known for its efficient fuel consumption, is the ideal vehicle for those looking to enjoy the journey without worrying about gas stations.
One is immediately struck by the seamless blending of natural beauty and historical significance when one explores the Natchez Trace Parkway further. The path meanders through thick forests, past peaceful streams, and over gently undulating hills. The parkway experiences several seasonal changes, but spring brings a riot of wildflowers, while fall transforms the scenery with warm, brilliant colors. The route is interspersed with ancient burial mounds left by the area’s indigenous peoples, as well as rustic huts and early European settlement monuments. In some places, besides the current road, the old buried trails that have been worn down by centuries of foot and animal traffic are still discernible, bringing to mind the countless generations who have gone before. The Natchez Trace offers a contemplative and introspective trip through time and is more than just a route; it is a tangible example of the rich history of the American South.
Kancamagus Scenic Byway, New Hampshire
Ideal Car: Volvo XC60
Affectionately known as “The Kanc”, this 34.5-mile stretch in the White Mountains is a haven for nature lovers. The Volvo XC60, with its comfortable interiors and advanced safety features, ensures a cozy drive as you navigate the winding roads, bridges, and picturesque views.
“The Kanc” perfectly captures the spirit of the outdoors in New Hampshire. You are engulfed by a great area of unspoiled forests as you travel along this byway, accentuated by magnificent waterfalls and tranquil river basins. There are several places for drivers to pull over, bathe their feet, or take the ideal photo along the Swift River, where they have company for a good portion of the drive. The path becomes a veritable artist’s palette of reds, oranges, and yellows during the autumn, making it one of the best places in New England for leaf-peeping. A winter wonderland is created when the area is covered in immaculate white snow. Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts are invited to explore the magnificent White Mountains up close at a number of trailheads that branch off the main road. Every traveler will find something in “The Kanc” that speaks to their soul, from historic locations like the Russell-Colbath Homestead to beautiful viewpoints like the Sabbaday Falls and Rocky Gorge.
Also Read : 7 Useful Tips for Staying Safe on the Road
Travel Tips and Considerations
- Plan Ahead: While the charm of these routes lies in their off-the-beaten-path nature, it’s wise to plan your trip, especially if you intend to stop and explore.
- Local Etiquette: Remember to respect local communities. Drive safely, obey speed limits, and avoid littering.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Regardless of your car choice, ensure it’s in optimal condition. Check tires, brakes, and fluid levels before embarking on your journey.
America’s lesser-known scenic routes offer a unique blend of tranquility, history, and natural beauty. While the road promises adventure, the car you choose plays an equally important role in shaping your experience. So, whether you’re navigating through dense forests, desert landscapes, or along the coast, ensuring your vehicle complements the terrain is key. Your journey awaits, and with the right car by your side, it promises to be an unforgettable one.
