10 scenic drives to try this christmas

10 Scenic Drives to Try This Christmas As the holiday season approaches, the urge to escape the hustle and bustle often leads to the open road. Christmas is not just about staying indoors; it is a magical time to witness how different landscapes transform under winter’s spell. From snow-covered mountain passes to festive, light-decorated coastal routes, taking a scenic drive is one of the best ways to embrace the festive spirit. Here are 10 breathtaking scenic drives to experience this Christmas.

1. The Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and VirginiaKnown as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway is a winter wonderland during December. While some sections may close due to snow, the open parts offer unparalleled views of the Appalachian Mountains covered in a soft blanket of white. The air is crisp, the evergreen trees are dusted with snow, and the quaint mountain towns along the way are adorned with festive lights. It is a peaceful, majestic drive that offers a truly serene Christmas experience.

2. Coastal Highway 1, CaliforniaFor those looking for a warmer, yet still festive, escape, California’s Highway 1 offers dramatic ocean views paired with charming, decorated coastal towns. Driving from Monterey to Cambria, you will pass through towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea, which goes all out with holiday decorations. The contrast of the deep blue Pacific Ocean, rocky cliffs, and festive, sunny seaside villages provides a unique, temperate Christmas driving experience.

3. The Vermont Route 100If your idea of Christmas involves a picture-perfect, snowy landscape, Vermont Route 100 is essential. This route takes you through the heart of the Green Mountains, passing through classic New England villages adorned with wreaths, lights, and, often, a thick layer of snow. Passing through towns like Stowe and Weston, the drive feels like stepping into a Christmas card, surrounded by frozen brooks and historic churches.

4. The Alpine Loop Scenic Backway, UtahFor adventurers, the Alpine Loop near Provo, Utah, is a stunning winter drive, provided you have a vehicle suitable for snowy conditions. The road cuts through the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, offering incredible views of Mount Timpanogos. It is a dramatic landscape of deep snow, towering peaks, and pine trees, perfect for experiencing a quiet, rugged, and snowy Christmas morning drive.

5. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Lower Sections), MontanaWhile the full Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is closed during winter, the lower sections near St. Mary and Apgar remain accessible. Driving through this area in December offers a glimpse into a tranquil, frozen world. The snow-capped mountains and silent, frozen lakes provide a profoundly peaceful atmosphere, making it a spectacular, secluded Christmas journey.

6. Olympic Peninsula Loop, WashingtonDriving around the Olympic National Park in Washington during December showcases the moody, magical side of the Pacific Northwest. The lush rainforests of the Hoh Valley, the moody coastline, and the snow-dusted Olympic Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop. Driving through small, festive towns like Port Townsend, which often hosts holiday markets, adds a cozy element to this rugged, natural drive.

7. Skyline Drive, VirginiaLocated in Shenandoah National Park, Skyline Drive offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Virginia valley. In December, the deciduous trees have dropped their leaves, providing an unobstructed, expansive view of the snowy mountainsides. The drive is exceptionally quiet, allowing for a contemplative journey through the frozen woods, with many scenic overlooks to enjoy the stunning winter vistas.

8. The Santa Fe Trail, New MexicoFor a culturally rich holiday drive, traveling the Santa Fe Trail through New Mexico offers a unique blend of southwestern charm and Christmas tradition. The route, particularly between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, is illuminated by farolitos (small paper lanterns) lining the roads. The adobe buildings, festive lights, and crisp desert air make for an unforgettable, warm, and culturally rich festive driving experience.

9. The Million Dollar Highway, ColoradoAs part of the San Juan Skyway, the Million Dollar Highway between Silverton and Ouray is a breathtaking, albeit dramatic, winter drive. The steep cliffs, deep canyons, and towering, snow-covered mountains offer an adrenaline-pumping, yet intensely beautiful, scenic experience. The mining towns along the route, such as Ouray, are beautifully decorated and provide a cozy, historical stop during the holiday season.

10. The Great River Road, Illinois to LouisianaFollowing the Mississippi River, the Great River Road offers a diverse, historic journey. During December, the northern sections offer a quiet, snowy landscape, while the southern sections offer a festive, milder experience. Driving through historic river towns decorated for the season provides a charming blend of history and holiday cheer, making it a perfect, long-distance scenic route to explore.

Taking the time to travel these scenic routes during Christmas provides a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of winter while enjoying the festive spirit of the holiday season. Whether through snow-covered mountains or sunny coastal paths, these drives promise unforgettable views and memories. Preparing for the road and embracing the scenic beauty makes for a perfect holiday adventure.