Life on the road offers some of the most breathtaking views you can imagine — but every driver has their favorite stretch of highway that stands out above the rest. To find out which routes resonate most with professional truckers, we asked our community to share the scenic roads and highways they love to drive. The answers reflect the diversity of America’s landscapes, from rugged mountain passes to peaceful coastal drives, each with its own story worth telling.
Tough and Beautiful Mountain Roads
Lynn Williams remembers the Rocky Mountains:
“My primary area of travel was all over the Rocky Mountain states so it’s hard to narrow to one, but one of my favorites was always 550 Montrose, CO over Red Mountain to Durango, CO. What I called one of the last ‘wild’ passes — no shoulders, sheer drop-offs, no guardrails, tight switchbacks, steep grades. All ingredients to keep life interesting, and sometimes even a little terrifying in winter, and tourist season!”
Gary Cameron agrees, especially loving the stretch down to Telluride.
James Donaldson calls out the Salt River Canyon on Route 60 in Arizona for its jaw-dropping views, but warns it’s no joke for semi drivers who aren’t prepared.
Classic Coastal Drives Worth Taking It Slow
Some roads just beg you to slow down and take it all in.
Mike Sena and James Shea both picked Highway 1 through the Redwoods as a must-drive, with its towering trees and peaceful pace.
Vicki Barrett couldn’t pick just one, sharing memories of crossing the Golden Gate Bridge and cruising through the Smoky Mountains.
Joshua Ainsworth loves the ocean views along Florida’s A1A highway.
Roads That Feel Like Home
Sometimes the best scenic drives are the ones close to where you live.
Mick V Murrell calls out Illinois Highway 100 between Grafton and Alton, saying it’s special because it’s “almost home” and beautiful too.
John Brewster appreciates the long haul on Route 17/I-86 across New York.
Jimmy Floyd Wood enjoys the drive between Lexington and Louisville on I-64.
Northwest Roads with Stunning Views
The Pacific Northwest has some real gems.
Clayton Willard recommends Chuckanut Drive near Bellingham, Washington, but says it’s tricky for semis with tight curves and sporty drivers.
JD Hiott likes cruising I-5 through the Cascades and checking out the volcanoes.
John-Michael Ramos mentioned WA Highway 14, part of the Lewis and Clark Trail.
Southern Routes That Stick With You
The South has plenty of scenic roads with plenty of soul.
Martha Martel loves Highway 16 in Texas, especially the drive west to Kerrville to visit family.
Karie Gillenwater thinks the route toward Chattanooga is something special.
Ella Lee Stewart says the drive from Dallas to El Paso is packed with beautiful sights.
A Few Other Fan Favorites
- N. Joe Myers enjoys the peacefulness of I-88 in New York.
- Don White simply calls out the Freedom Highway—the good old U.S. of A.
- Steven Clark mentioned spots like I-70 over Vail, the Pacific Coast Highway, and Battleship Bay in Alabama.
- Michael Mercier can’t get enough of the 7 Mile Bridge to Key West, Florida.
- Joe Coslet loves Highway 61 through the Mississippi Delta for its history and vibe.
The Road is the Reward
For many drivers, it’s not just the destination, but the ride itself.
Bryan Fish sums it up perfectly:
“Anywhere as long as I’m driving.”
Carole Kimes agrees:
“The one I am on. All have something to offer.”
Whether it’s mountain passes, coastal highways, or quiet country roads, truckers across America have plenty of places that make the miles worth it.
Want to share your favorite routes and swap stories with fellow drivers? Join the Truck Drivers USA community today to join the conversation!
