The Most Scenic Highways in the Great Northwest

Driving through the Great Northwest United States offers some of the most breath-taking scenery you can imagine. The beauty of nature is something to behold, especially when you have the top down on your convertible as you cruise by rivers, valleys, mountains and even volcanoes. These are some of our favorite drives through one of the most beautiful parts of the country. We hope you enjoy!

White Pass Scenic Byway

The White Pass Scenic Byway travels along US-12 from I-5 to Naches exploring the majestic Cascade Mountains and central Washington. The road reaches an elevation of almost 4,500 feet, revealing beautiful mountains covered with lush forests and white powdery snow, along with gorgeous lakes and rivers untouched by man. The beauty is truly on display with this unparalleled scenery, and makes this a picture perfect drive. And if you don’t want to just enjoy the drive, stop in and take in the views! There are plenty of activities from fishing, hiking, and camping to help you relax and unwind.

Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway  

Also known as the “highway of waterfalls” this scenic byway follows two legendary Oregon rivers: The North Umpqua and Upper Rogue River. Along your way you’ll pass through the town of Glide. This town is home to “Colliding Rivers”, a breathtaking natural wonder where the North Umpqua River funnels into a water chute and collides with the sparkling Little River causing the water to churn in every direction. It is the only place in the world where this occurs. After this be sure to stop at any one of the 15 waterfalls and lakes along the drive, where you can hike, swim, and camp. There are hundreds of years of history to be seen on this drive, and there’s no better way to do it than with the top down.

Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

This drive runs through the middle of Central Oregon, and is a sight to behold. Along this drive you’ll pass by the Cascade Lakes, where glaciers and volcanoes create a landscape breathtakingly gorgeous. As you travel this 66-mile drive, you’ll be able to stop through the city of Bend. Its vibrant downtown offers shops, hotels, restaurants and world renowned craft breweries. It is also home to the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Explore the beauty Oregon has to offer on this once in a lifetime drive, and do it with the top down!  

Chinook Scenic Byway

Washington State’s Chinook Scenic Byway travels through the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and Mount Rainier National Park. This drive provides spectacular views of the glacier fed White River Valley and Chinook Pass, along with dense forests, towering peaks, and fast flowing river canyons. You can also stop to hike or camp at Mount Rainier National Park, where the views from the top of the mountain are said to be some of the most fantastic views in the US. This drive is full of breathtaking scenery and opportunities for lots of outdoor fun, don’t miss out.

All of these drives have one thing in common, they are perfect for letting the top down and taking in all of the beauty this great nation provides. These are just a few of hundreds of scenic drives through the great northwest where you can drop the top and enjoy every second of your drive. Tell us your favorite scenic highways and what makes them perfect to you. We can’t wait to hear your stories!