16 Scenic Overlooks to Discover Along U.S. Highways
When you’re on a road trip, nothing beats the moment you come to a scenic overlook—usually the apex of a long stretch of driving. Rather than just photo opportunities, these stops are designed for travelers to connect with stunning landscapes, reflect on the beauty of nature, and recharge before returning to the road. Road trips have become more popular post-2020, with more Americans taking to highways to explore the country’s different landscapes, Travel + Leisure writes. The role of scenic overlooks in these experiences is to provide a bird’s-eye view of the scenery, offering awe-inspiring views that act as windows into the country’s natural splendor.
Here is a roundup of the most mesmerizing scenic overlooks along US highway routes. All have unique displays, ranging from a bird’s-eye view of the mountains to a panoramic view of the sea horizon.
Skyline Drive Overlooks – Virginia
Stretching (105 miles) through Shenandoah National Park, Skyline Drive features 75 overlooks for some of the most spectacular skyline viewing available, looking down on the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. Most people come here in the fall when reds, oranges, and yellows paint the landscape with color. And summer is also a time for lush greenery and blooming wildflowers.
Stony Man Overlook shouldn’t be missed, as there is a short and rewarding trail to go along with some pretty breathtaking panoramic views. To see the valley bundled in mist, arrive early in the morning with fewer crowds.
Beartooth Pass- Montana/Wyoming
At nearly 11,000 feet above sea level, the Beartooth Pass is one of America’s highest roadways and offers one of the most dramatic views of the US. Cutting across rugged peaks and alpine tundra, the Beartooth Highway has been dubbed by Outside Magazine as America’s most beautiful drive. You’ll also see shimmering glacial lakes and possibly even snow in July.
The pass is snow-free, so the best time to visit is late spring through summer.
Hurricane Ridge, Washington
Located within Olympic National Park, Hurricane Ridge provides stunning views of the snow-capped Olympic Mountains on one side and the Strait of Juan de Fuca on the other. On clear days, you might even see Vancouver Island in Canada. This area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking trails that lead to equally stunning views.
Winter is a great time to visit for its unique snowy landscape and to use binoculars to spot wildlife, such as mountain goats.
Seven Mile Bridge – Florida Keys
Gliding right above the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean feels like driving over the Seven Mile Bridge. Overseas Highway is the iconic connective road between the Florida Keys and offers one of the most surreal oceanic views in the country. You should also stop at Bahia Honda State Park, which is one of the best beaches in the US.
Multnomah Falls View, Oregon
The Historic Columbia River Highway is home to Multnomah Falls, the crown jewel of the highway. It cascades 611 feet, one of the tallest in the Pacific Northwest. At the overlook, you’ll be captivated by the colors of the crashing water and astounded by the greenery surrounding it. Benson Footbridge offers an iconic view of the falls and lets you get close enough for photos.
Artist Point, Yellowstone National Park
And it certainly lives up to its name, promising postcard-perfect views of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and the striking Lower Falls. With ochre-tinged canyon walls and the rich blues and greens of the river below, this is a painter’s dream. Summer is the best time to visit when the surrounding trails have the best exploration conditions.
Moro Rock, California
Located in Sequoia National Park, this granite dome affords 360-degree views of the Sierra Nevada and the Great Western Divide. The climb to the top is intensely rewarding, but not for the faint of heart. Magical lighting over the rugged peaks —you can go at sunrise or sunset for that.
Dead Horse Point, Utah
Dead Horse Point brings to life Utah’s desert landscapes. Famed for its sunsets that transform the red rock terrain, it towers 2,000 feet above a gooseneck in the Colorado River. Order takeout from a local Moab café and have a picnic with a view!
Newfound Gap, Tennessee/North Carolina
Newfound Gap straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina and is the most well-known scenic stop in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Perhaps the essence of what they called the Smokies is that they have sprawling views of misty ridges. Visit at dawn to catch the beauty of the smoky haze.
Diablo Lake Overlook, Washington
Despite the name Diablo Lake, everything around is pure serenity. This lake, located along the North Cascades Highway, is known for its emerald and turquoise water and boasts one of the most photogenic views in Washington. The most unique aspect is that the lake’s coloration originates from glacial sediment—the perfect hue for incredible drone photography.
Logan Pass, Montana
Logan Pass, at 6,646 feet elevation, is the highest point (the ‘pinnacle’) of Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road and is regularly blanketed with high alpine meadows and sheer, rugged mountains. In summer, wildflowers bloom generously, and mountain goats frequently wander close to summer visitors.
Cape Royal, Arizona
Cape Royal probably offers one of the widest and most spectacular viewpoints on the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, with its seemingly endless layers of color and geology. Watching shadow and light play together at sunset is an experience in itself.
Cloudland Canyon, Georgia
Away from Highway 136, this overlook offers dramatic views of one of Georgia’s most charming natural wonders. Cloudland Canyon’s sheer walls and dense forest are a must-see, especially in the fall when the foliage turns to blaze.
Mount Greylock, Massachusetts
At 3,491 feet, this is the highest point in Massachusetts. On a clear day, five states can be seen from the summit—an impressive view for an East Coast lookout. The relaxing hike to the top is equally stunning for the great view, or you may drive up for one.
Garden of the Gods, Colorado
This free public park in Colorado Springs offers terrific views of massive red rock formations and Pikes Peak in the distance. The rock is otherworldly and vibrant, with reds and oranges against a blue sky.
Often, visitors take some time to explore the park’s geological features or to relax and enjoy the park’s beauty. Garden of the Gods boasts countless overlooks, meaning there’s no lack of jaw-dropping scenery here.
Hogback, Utah
Hogback offers thrilling views and a touch of adrenaline. This stretch of Scenic Byway 12 is a narrow ridge from which you can sit and look down dizzyingly into the desert canyon below. Extra value is added to your itinerary by having detours to Bryce Canyon or Capitol Reef along this route.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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