The Hottest Summer Drives

Now that the blistering summer heat has finally begun to relax, it’s the perfect time to drop the top and take a scenic drive along your favorite highways. With temperatures in the triple-digits recently, there’s been little relief from the heat even with the convertible top (and gas pedal) all the way down. So, now that the first hints of a cool breeze have begun to tease us from the not so distant future, we’ve decided to review a few of our favorite drives to close out this amazing summer season.

Chattahoochee National Forest

Driving through the Chattahoochee National Forest in Georgia, which connects with Nantahala National Forest in Tennessee, provides a breathtaking view of the diverse flora and fauna native to the Southeast USA. The Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway and Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway provide an up-close and personal view of the unique landscape, as well as the Civil War battle sites and other sites of historic significance. These scenic highways have plenty of places to stop and enjoy the view with the Cohutta Mountains and Appalachian Mountains providing a spectacular view of North Georgia.

The Swiss Alps of Texas

The Swiss Alps of Texas is a 125 mile loop touring the Texas Hill Country centered around the town of Leakey, Texas. This scenic drive crosses several rivers that provide beautiful swimming, white-water rafting, and plenty of other recreational opportunities. The elevation ranges from 1,500 to 2,400 feet above sea-level with plenty of high hills and canyons to enjoy. On this drive you may encounter tight turns and the slight potential of falling rocks, but the views and experience are worth it! The drive passes through the town of Bandera, which is the Cowboy Capital of Texas.

The Finger Lakes

Driving around the Finger Lakes provides a beautiful view of Central New York. The Finger Lakes has breathtaking waterfalls with extensive gorges and colorful sunsets. These lakes were created by continental glaciers and the area is now home to many unique plants and animals. The Finger Lakes region and surrounding area is home to over 100 wineries producing a wide range of varietals including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, and more. While you don’t have to get out of your convertible to enjoy this drive, there are plenty of activities to enjoy including hiking, swimming, and visiting the local museums.

The Florida Keys

Take U.S. 1 in southern Florida to embark on one of the most fun beachfront drives of your life! U.S. 1 will take you from Key West all the way into Jacksonville, but you don’t have to go that far! The Florida Keys offer plenty of sunshine and highway to enjoy with amazing stops along the way. From delicious seafood and fine dining to deep sea fishing and scuba diving, the Florida Keys has it all!

These are all exhilarating drives for any time of year, but late summer provides great weather and plenty of sunshine to enjoy these drives to the fullest. What are your favorite scenic drives for the summer? Share your thoughts in the comments below!