13 Stunning Winter Drives Across the United States

Arches National Park Road, Utah

Starting point: Entrance to Arches National Park

The route: 36-mile round trip along the park's scenic drive

What to expect: Always stunning, Arches National Park’s natural sandstone formations take on a magical quality when blanketed in snow and illuminated by soft winter light — a dream for desert photographers. The National Park Service maintains the scenic drive, although snow removal can take several hours immediately following a snowfall.

The paved Arches National Park Road, a straightforward out-and-back route, offers convenient access to park highlights such as the historic Wolfe Ranch cabin, the Windows Section featuring some of the park's largest arches, and the Delicate Arch viewpoint, the park's most famous site.

Where to stop: Park at the Windows Section for a half-hour walk beneath North Window or Double Arch. About four miles down the road, visit Wolfe Ranch and imagine stepping back into the 1800s. From this point, you can hike a mile and a half uphill to Delicate Arch, but watch out for icy patches on the trail.

Seward Highway, Alaska

Starting point: Anchorage, Alaska

The route: Approximately 50 miles along the Seward Highway from Anchorage to Portage

What to expect: Experience stunning winter landscapes amidst the snow-capped mountains of Chugach National Forest as you drive along Alaska's Seward Highway. Conclude your journey at the ghost town of Portage, or if you're feeling adventurous and prepared with chains, continue for another 80 miles to Seward.

While Alaska is famous for its frigid and snowy weather, the Seward Highway is a busy route that remains relatively clear throughout winter. The drive from Anchorage to Portage takes about an hour — or two and a half hours if you continue to Seward — making it a feasible day trip.

Where to stop: The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center offers an up-close experience with native wildlife, including reindeer, lynx, moose, and grizzlies, that have been rescued and can no longer thrive in the wild. The quaint community of Whittier, located about halfway between Anchorage and Seward, is often referred to as "the town under one roof," as most residents live in a single 14-story building that houses the post office, police station, convenience store, and health clinic. Its isolation and small population of about 250 people have turned it into a popular tourist destination.

Yosemite Valley Loop, California

Starting point: Groveland, California

The route: Take CA-120/Big Oak Flat Road from Groveland to El Portal Road in Yosemite, then follow El Portal Road to Southside Drive, looping around to Northside Drive and returning to El Portal Road, covering approximately 45 miles.

What to expect: Navigating through Yosemite Valley during the off-season unveils a breathtakingly tranquil winter landscape. Snow blankets its iconic granite formations, and the frigid air transforms sections of Yosemite Falls into ice. While the park experiences several winter road closures, both Yosemite Valley and Wawona are accessible by vehicle year-round. Specifically, Wawona Road (Highway 41), El Portal Road (Highway 140), Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120 from the west), and Hetch Hetchy Road remain open throughout the year, though they may close due to weather conditions.

Where to stop: Thrill-seekers can indulge in downhill and cross-country skiing at Badger Pass Ski Area, open from mid-December to early April. The access road is well-maintained, although tire chains are often necessary. Additionally, be sure to stop beneath El Capitan in the Valley to take in its impressive stature.

Covered Bridge Circuit Through Parke County, Indiana

Starting point: Rockville, Indiana

The route: Begin on Bridgeton Road from Rockville to Bridgeton, then take High Banks and Rosedale roads to reach Rosedale, followed by Coxville Road to Mecca, and finally Mecca Road and U.S. Highway 41 back to Rockville, covering approximately 45 miles.

What to expect: Home to 31 historic covered bridges, Parke County is celebrated as the "Covered Bridge Capital of the World," with the snow-covered landscape providing an enchanting backdrop. Many of these bridges, constructed in the 1800s and still in operation, span frozen rivers and streams, beautifully contrasting with the snowy meadows. This particular loop highlights eight bridges and takes around an hour and a half to complete.

Where to stop: Along your journey, take time to appreciate the McAllister Covered Bridge from 1914; Neet Covered Bridge; Bridgeton Covered Bridge; Roseville Covered Bridge, the longest among the eight; Mecca Bridge, the oldest dating back to 1873; Phillip's Bridge, the shortest; Sim Smith Bridge, rumored to be haunted; and Melcher Bridge. If you're in the mood for a snack, Rosedale offers delicious biscuits and gravy or a slice of pie at Comar's Cafe.

Skyline Drive Through Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Starting point: Front Royal or Rockfish Gap, Virginia

The route: A scenic 105 miles stretching from Front Royal to Rockfish Gap along Skyline Drive

What to expect: The Blue Ridge Mountains are arguably the most beautiful peaks in the eastern United States, and Skyline Drive takes travelers along their ridge. This is the sole public road through Shenandoah National Park, although sections may be closed during bad weather. In the winter, many of Shenandoah's over 500 miles of trails stay open for snowshoeing and skiing, allowing visitors to witness frozen waterfalls and other icy wonders.

Where to stop: Maintain the 35-mph speed limit and choose from any of the 75 overlooks along the route for breathtaking vistas of the Shenandoah Valley to the west and the Piedmont Mountains to the east. Keep an eye out for wildlife — while many animals hibernate, foxes and bobcats stay active throughout the winter.

Million Dollar Highway, Colorado

Starting point: Ouray or Silverton, Colorado

The route: A scenic 24-mile stretch along U.S. 550 connecting Ouray and Silverton

What to expect: The Million Dollar Highway is famous for its breathtaking views — or perhaps it's named for an early traveler who, terrified by its steep climbs and sharp turns, vowed never to traverse it again, even for a million dollars. Alternatively, the highway's construction was rumored to cost a million dollars per mile. Regardless of the origin of its name, the drive — part of the San Juan Skyway, a recognized Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway — is undeniably stunning, offering priceless mountain scenery.

Be aware that the highway, or certain segments of it, may close due to snowfall. Snow chains are advisable during winter months since the route features steep cliffs and sharp curves.

Where to stop: Stop at any of the designated viewpoints to marvel at natural attractions like Bear Creek Falls and the iron-rich peaks of Red Mountain. If you're looking to explore further, consider making the historic town of Silverton your basecamp. A short detour worth taking is to the ghost town and former mining site of Animas Forks.

Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee to Asheville, North Carolina

Starting point: Gatlinburg, Tennessee

The route: Approximately 120 miles along U.S. Highway 441 and the Blue Ridge Parkway

What to expect: This route guides you through the breathtaking alpine scenery of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Pisgah National Forest. Starting in Gatlinburg, take breaks along U.S. 441 at Newfound Gap and Clingmans Dome for sweeping vistas, then transition to the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Don’t miss a chance for a winter hike to the summit of Devil's Courthouse before heading onward to Asheville.

Where to stop: Spend a day at Ober Mountain, a mountainside amusement park offering skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and more — the 2.1-mile Aerial Tramway from downtown Gatlinburg to the summit is a scenic experience in its own right. Along the Blue Ridge Parkway, choose from over 50 scenic pullouts that showcase stunning mountain views. Don't miss a visit to the 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate in Asheville, which is an essential stop.

Route 100, Vermont

Starting point: Stowe, Vermont

The route: 142 miles along VT-100

What to expect: While many roads in this picturesque state are delightful, Vermont Route 100 (VT-100) stands out as a premier choice. It allows travelers to explore the quaint villages of Wilmington and Weston, as well as the stunning Mad River Valley and Moss Glen Falls. Winter is a fantastic time to experience this region, which is rich in skiing and winter sports. Even if you're not up for outdoor activities, the atmosphere remains warm and vibrant.

Where to stop: Nearly every village along the route features a charming country store, but Weston's historic Vermont Country Store is the ultimate stop for practical souvenirs and one-of-a-kind local treats. And although it’s winter, a visit to the Ben & Jerry's factory in Waterbury is still highly recommended.

High Road to Taos Scenic Byway, New Mexico

Starting point: Chimayo, New Mexico

The route: 49 miles through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains on NM-76, also known as the High Road, connecting Chimayo to Taos

What to expect: A one-hour drive into the high desert offers stunning views of snow-dusted junipers and piñon pines, taking you past the wood-carving village of Cordova, with the majestic Truchas Peak towering at 13,102 feet in the distance. Begin your journey at Nambé Pueblo, an ancient Indigenous community just south of Chimayo, for a touch of history.

Where to stop: Santuario de Chimayo, located near the start of this drive, is believed to be on sacred ground known for its miraculous healing properties. San José de Gracia de Las Trampas is a National Historic Landmark situated along the High Road. Near Taos, you'll find San Francisco de Asís Mission Church, which has stood for over 200 years.

Highway 57 in Northern Door County, Wisconsin

Starting point: Green Bay, Wisconsin

The route: 85 miles along Wisconsin Highway 57 from Green Bay to Gills Rock

What to expect: Door County North offers a Midwestern twist on the Cape Cod experience, featuring charming coastal towns, local boutiques, and family-run eateries perfect for a cozy winter getaway. The popular 1 hour and 45-minute drive from Green Bay to Gills Rock meanders between the peninsula's eastern and western shores. As you pass through several quaint, historic towns, you'll eventually arrive at the northern tip.

Where to stop: Seize every chance to pause and enjoy the views of Lake Michigan. Along the eastern shore, explore Wisconsin's tallest dunes at Whitefish Dunes State Park and witness breathtaking ice formations along the cliffs at Cave Point County Park. At Newport State Park, close to Gills Rock, you can enjoy over 26 miles of cross-country skiing trails. Newport is also a recognized Dark Sky Park, making it ideal for stargazing on long winter nights.

Lake Tahoe Loop, California and Nevada

Starting point: Incline Village, Nevada, or South Lake Tahoe, California

The route: 72 miles encircling Lake Tahoe via NV-28, U.S. 50, and CA-89

What to expect: The Sierra Nevada mountains create stunning reflections on the crystal-clear waters of one of North America's deepest lakes, offering captivating views, especially during winter. Driving around the lake takes about two hours without stops, but allow extra time to savor the breathtaking scenery. The eastern stretch of the route in Nevada is designated as a National Scenic Byway, renowned for its beauty.

Where to stop: Sand Harbor, part of the expansive 14,300-acre Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, is perfect for a chilly dip in the lake (which never freezes) before embarking on a winter hike, snowshoeing, or skiing. Additionally, near the state line close to South Lake Tahoe, enjoy a picturesque gondola ride to Heavenly Ski Resort, where you can take in spectacular aerial views of the lake alongside options for tubing and ice skating.

Lakes to Locks Passage, New York

Starting point: Waterford or Whitehall, New York

The route: 60 miles along U.S. 4 connecting Waterford and Whitehall

What to expect: This National Scenic Byway extends for 190 miles through northeastern New York State, with the section between Waterford and Whitehall being particularly stunning. When temperatures plummet, the lakes and ponds along the route transform into popular spots for ice fishing.

If you're more interested in birds than fish, this winter drive traverses the Atlantic Flyway, where you might spot overwintering dark-eyed juncos, evening grosbeaks, and purple finches.

Where to stop: Take in the views of the Hudson River and Champlain Canal during your drive. At Saratoga National Historical Park, visit the Schuyler Estate, constructed in 1777 as the residence of General Philip Schuyler, who was Alexander Hamilton's father-in-law. This is the site where Hamilton wed General Schuyler's daughter, Elizabeth, in 1780.

Interstate 95 to U.S. 1, Florida

Starting point: St. Augustine, Florida

The route: Approximately 470 miles; begin on I-95 from St. Augustine to Miami, then transition to U.S. 1 heading to Key West.

What to expect: Prefer to avoid winter road troubles? Experience Florida's vibrant winter instead. For a picturesque journey that highlights the Sunshine State, drive south along the Atlantic coast from St. Augustine — the oldest continuously inhabited city in the U.S. — down to Key West, the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Expect sandy beaches in place of snow and palm trees instead of pines.

Where to stop: Discover essential sights such as historic St. Augustine, featuring the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. This route also passes by the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, and don’t miss Miami (stop by Little Havana for a refreshing cortadito for your drive), before heading to the Florida Keys, where you’ll traverse the iconic Seven Mile Bridge on your way to Key West.