The Top 10 Most Scenic Drives in California
California offers some of the most breathtaking road trips in the world. Its scenic drives showcase diverse landscapes, from dramatic coastlines to towering mountains, expansive deserts, and lush vineyards. Whether seeking a peaceful escape into nature or an adventurous route full of twists and turns, the Golden State has something for everyone. Below, we explore California's Top 10 Most Scenic Drives, each offering unique beauty and unforgettable experiences.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1)
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, is perhaps the most famous scenic drive in California and one of the most iconic in the world. Stretching over 600 miles along the state's coastline, this route offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming seaside towns.
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2. Big Sur Coastline
Big Sur is a rugged stretch of California’s coastline between Carmel and San Simeon, where the Santa Lucia Mountains rise abruptly from the Pacific Ocean. This drive is known for its unparalleled natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, with towering cliffs, rocky outcrops, and crashing waves providing a backdrop that’s hard to beat.
Photo: unsplash.com/georgeallancox
3. Tioga Pass Road (Highway 120)
Tioga Pass is a high mountain road that crosses through the Sierra Nevada mountains, providing access to the eastern entrance of Yosemite National Park. At 9,945 feet, it’s the highest highway pass in California, offering dramatic alpine views and serene meadows.
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4. Death Valley’s Badwater Road
Death Valley is the hottest and driest place in North America, yet it offers a landscape of haunting beauty. Badwater Road runs through the heart of Death Valley National Park, leading visitors to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, 282 feet below sea level.
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5. Angeles Crest Highway
The Angeles Crest Highway winds its way through the San Gabriel Mountains, offering a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. This mountain road provides breathtaking views of the city, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding wilderness.
Photo: unsplash.com/byrell
6. Redwood Highway (Highway 101)
The Redwood Highway (Highway 101) winds through the towering ancient forests of Northern California, offering an unforgettable drive through some of the largest and oldest trees in the world. This iconic route runs from the Oregon border down through the Redwood National and State Parks and offers coastal views and lush forest scenery.
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7. Napa Valley’s Silverado Trail
The Silverado Trail is Napa Valley's quieter and more scenic alternative to Highway 29. This 29-mile road takes you through the heart of wine country, with rolling hills covered in vineyards, charming wineries, and views of the valley’s beautiful landscape.
Photo: unsplash.com/aginsbrook
8. Lake Tahoe’s Emerald Bay Road
Emerald Bay Road (part of Highway 89) is a stunning drive that wraps around the south and west shores of Lake Tahoe, offering some of the most beautiful lake and mountain views in California. The drive's highlight is Emerald Bay, a sheltered inlet with sapphire-blue waters surrounded by forests and peaks.
Photo: unsplash.com/merittthomas
9. Palms to Pines Scenic Byway
The Palms to Pines Scenic Byway offers a unique transition from Palm Springs's low-lying desert to the forested peaks of the San Jacinto Mountains. This 67-mile drive takes you from the hot desert floor into more astonishing mountain terrain, making it one of California’s most diverse scenic drives.
Photo: unsplash.com/cwmonty
10. Route 66 (California Section)
Route 66 is one of the most iconic roads in American history, and the California section offers a nostalgic journey through desert towns, quirky attractions, and remnants of classic Americana. While much of the original highway has been replaced by modern interstates, several scenic sections remain, especially between Barstow and Needles.
Photo: unsplash.com/yangchihshih
California’s scenic drives offer some of the world's most diverse and beautiful landscapes. From the rugged cliffs of Big Sur to the towering redwoods of Highway 101 and the iconic charm of Route 66, these routes capture the essence of the Golden State’s natural beauty and rich history. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these roads by car is an experience you’ll never forget.
When planning your road trip, consider the best seasons and potential road closures, and don’t rush—each drive deserves to be savored. Regardless of your route, California’s scenic drives will leave you with lasting memories and an even greater appreciation for the state’s natural wonders.