Once bustling with road trippers, tour buses, and camera-snapping tourists, these once-popular scenic routes across America have grown quieter in recent years. Whether bypassed by freeways, hit by economic downturns, or simply forgotten in favor of trendier spots, these drives now offer wide-open roads, stunning views—and a surprising sense of solitude.
1. Natchez Trace Parkway
Once a vibrant corridor for RVers and cyclists, the Natchez Trace Parkway is now a quiet sanctuary for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Stretching from Mississippi to Tennessee, this route traces old Native American trails and Civil War battlegrounds. With almost no traffic, the drive is a peaceful journey through lush forests and quiet scenic pull-offs. Embedded within this solitude are ghost towns like Rocky Springs, offering a glimpse into a past life.
Time seems to stand still as you meander through landscapes steeped in history. Imagine the stories of those who traveled before—now you can experience it without the crowds. This parkway has transformed from a bustling heritage-rich route to a tranquil escape. What’s more, the scenic beauty of the drive provides a serene setting for reflective driving. It’s a landscape that asks for nothing more than your presence, offering everything in return.
2. California State Route 49
California State Route 49, once bustling during gold rush anniversaries and peak summer seasons, now offers a calm retreat through Gold Country. Historic mining towns like Sutter Creek and Mariposa, once teeming with tourists, are now quieter, allowing for a more intimate exploration of their storied pasts. The Sierra Nevada foothills provide a backdrop of rolling, picturesque views that invite a leisurely drive.
Amidst this tranquility, the echoes of a bygone era can still be felt. Travelers can explore charming boutiques and old saloons without the hustle and bustle of crowds. The less crowded roads provide an opportunity to delve into the area’s rich heritage at your own pace. Each twist and turn reveals a landscape etched with history and quiet beauty.
This peaceful stretch of highway, with its historic allure, is a perfect escape for those looking to experience California’s past in solitude.
3. U.S. Route 66 – Arizona Stretch
The Arizona stretch of U.S. Route 66 has transformed from a nostalgic pilgrimage for travelers into a serene journey through vintage Americana. While many now opt for I-40, bypassing this historic route, those who venture here are rewarded with empty roads lined with charming relics of the past. Towns like Kingman and Seligman, once bustling, now offer a more intimate experience of nostalgia with their quirky roadside attractions.
Striking in its solitude, the drive captivates with remnants of a bygone era. The iconic signs and preserved diners tell tales of the road’s golden age, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its history. This hauntingly empty stretch is a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility and a connection to America’s past. Uncrowded and serene, Route 66 in Arizona has become a passageway to another time, waiting to be rediscovered.
Embrace the timeless charm and solitude of this legendary road.
4. Blue Ridge Parkway – Virginia to North Carolina (South End)
The southernmost portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway, stretching from Virginia to North Carolina, was once a hotspot for leaf-peepers and hikers. Now, it offers a slice of solitude, especially around midweek. Near the town of Cherokee, the parkway is often overlooked, providing uninterrupted mountain views and serene trails.
This drive is an immersive experience in nature’s untouched beauty. The diverse landscapes offer a kaleidoscope of colors and the tranquility that comes with having the mountains to yourself. Travelers can explore the trails and vistas without the bustling crowds, making it a perfect destination for those seeking peace and reflection.
With its rolling hills and vibrant foliage, the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway invites a leisurely journey through one of America’s most scenic regions. The quiet, winding roads are an escape from the ordinary, offering a chance to breathe deeply and embrace the natural splendor.
5. The Lincoln Highway – Nebraska
Once a major cross-country artery, The Lincoln Highway in Nebraska now stands as a testament to the early days of road travel. Bypassed by the more direct I-80, this route offers a quiet drive through rural beauty and history. The tiny towns like Gothenburg, with their historic markers, are rare finds along the way, providing a glimpse into simpler times.
The road’s solitude is its charm, whispering stories of travelers from a different era. This path invites a leisurely exploration at a pace where time slows down, letting you absorb the nuances of the landscape.
Each mile traveled on this highway reflects the heritage of America’s roadways, making it a hidden treasure for those who appreciate history and tranquility. For a journey that takes you away from the modern rush, the Lincoln Highway is an ideal choice, offering peace and reflection in its quiet stretches.
6. Kancamagus Highway – New Hampshire (Off-Season)
Autumn in New Hampshire is synonymous with vibrant foliage, but the Kancamagus Highway offers a different charm in the off-season. Visit this route during spring or winter, outside the ski season, and you’ll find a nearly deserted alpine drive that still captivates with breathtaking landscapes.
The absence of traffic transforms this famous highway into a peaceful retreat, with winding roads that meander through dense forests and mountain vistas. The quiet atmosphere allows one to truly connect with nature, making it a perfect setting for introspection and appreciation of the natural world.
Each turn reveals a new panorama, untouched by the usual crowds of leaf-peepers. This off-season journey offers a unique perspective of New Hampshire’s wilderness, a serene escape that invites travelers to savor the quiet beauty of the surroundings. Experience the Kancamagus Highway as a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle.
7. U.S. Highway 2 – Montana’s Hi-Line
Running parallel to the Canadian border, U.S. Highway 2 in Montana is a journey through vast prairie landscapes and unobstructed views of Glacier National Park’s edge. Once a go-to for rugged Northern exposure, it now offers near-zero traffic, making the drive one of solitude and scenic beauty.
Small towns like Malta and Shelby dot this landscape, feeling as though time has paused. These towns, with their old-fashioned charm, offer glimpses into an era where life moved at a slower pace. The expansive vistas along the highway create a canvas of natural beauty, perfect for those seeking tranquility.
This drive provides an opportunity to disconnect from the fast-paced world and immerse oneself in the serene expanses of Montana. The Hi-Line is not just a road; it is an experience of the boundless skies and open spaces that define the American West. Enjoy the peace and timelessness of this remote stretch.
8. Talimena Scenic Drive – Oklahoma to Arkansas
The Talimena Scenic Drive, stretching from Oklahoma to Arkansas through the Ouachita Mountains, was once a bustling route for fall foliage enthusiasts. Today, it’s a serene journey that boasts ridgeline views and historical significance, all with very few cars in sight.
The road winds through breathtaking landscapes, providing an uninterrupted experience of the region’s natural beauty. Civil War sites along the route add layers of historical intrigue and offer moments of reflection. The tranquility of the drive invites travelers to engage with the environment, making it an ideal escape from everyday life.
With its sweeping vistas and quiet roads, the Talimena Scenic Drive is an under-traveled gem that invites exploration. Discover the allure of this scenic route, where nature and history combine to offer a peaceful retreat. This drive promises a connection to the past and present, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Ouachita Mountains.
9. Route 100 – Vermont
Once a magnet for tourists in the ’90s and early 2000s, Route 100 in Vermont now offers quiet charm during off-peak seasons. The route, renowned for its ski towns like Stowe, provides serene drives through picturesque villages and rolling mountain scenery without the old traffic jams.
The rural landscapes are dotted with covered bridges and charming towns, inviting travelers to explore the area’s beauty at their own pace. The quiet roads offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of more crowded tourist destinations, allowing for a deeper connection to Vermont’s natural and cultural heritage.
Experience the allure of Route 100 as a peaceful escape into the heart of New England. The drive is a celebration of Vermont’s timeless beauty, perfect for those seeking solitude and a genuine connection with the landscapes and communities along the way. Discover a Vermont that quietly beckons with its understated elegance and tranquility.
10. Columbia River Scenic Highway – Oregon
The Columbia River Scenic Highway, Oregon’s first scenic byway, was once packed with waterfall chasers and tourists. Now, tourists mostly stick to I-84, leaving this historic road open for those who seek solitude. This drive offers uninterrupted views of Multnomah Falls and Crown Point, free from the typical crowds.
Hand-carved tunnels and stone guardrails add a touch of historic charm, complementing the natural beauty of the Columbia River Gorge. The peacefulness of this route invites travelers to slow down and appreciate the majestic landscapes at their own pace.
This drive is a journey through history and nature, where the road itself is part of the adventure. The Columbia River Scenic Highway offers a unique and tranquil experience, perfect for those looking to escape into Oregon’s historic and scenic beauty. Embark on a drive that marries the allure of history with the peace of nature.
11. U.S. Route 50 – Nevada (The “Loneliest Road”)
Dubbed the “Loneliest Road,” U.S. Route 50 in Nevada offers haunting desert beauty and solitude. Once a curiosity for thrill-seekers, it is now even lonelier, offering a unique experience of the vast, empty landscape. Historic mining towns like Ely and Austin provide intriguing stops along the way, each with its own story to tell.
The drive through Nevada’s vast deserts is a journey into isolation, where the open road stretches endlessly under an expansive sky. This solitude is punctuated by the occasional glimpse into the region’s mining history, adding a layer of intrigue to the vast openness.
For those seeking an escape from the ordinary, U.S. Route 50 offers an experience like no other. It is a road that embodies the spirit of adventure and exploration, inviting travelers to embrace the serenity of the desert and the whispers of history that linger in its towns. Enjoy the peace and vastness of this unforgettable drive.
12. Beartooth Highway – Montana/Wyoming
The Beartooth Highway, once crowded during Yellowstone’s summer rush, remains one of the highest, most awe-inspiring alpine roads in America. With newer routes drawing more traffic away, it now offers a quieter journey through its breathtaking landscapes.
This drive takes you through rugged terrain and high mountain passes, with views that leave a lasting impression. The lack of crowds allows for an immersive experience, where every vista can be enjoyed in solitude. It’s a road that invites reflection, with nature’s grandeur as your backdrop.
The highway’s alpine beauty is unparalleled, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the wilderness. For those who seek serenity and adventure, the Beartooth Highway is a perfect escape. Discover the untouched splendor of this scenic route and enjoy the peace that comes with having it to yourself.
13. Cherohala Skyway – Tennessee to North Carolina
Built as a scenic marvel, the Cherohala Skyway never received the same attention as the Blue Ridge Parkway, yet it offers a drive filled with solitude and stunning views. Spanning Tennessee to North Carolina, this empty, twisty road through the Appalachian forests is ideal for peaceful drives.
The Skyway’s curves and elevation changes provide a sense of adventure, inviting travelers to explore its lush surroundings. The quiet roads offer a connection to nature, with the forested ridges revealing their beauty at every turn. It’s a place where one can truly escape and appreciate the untouched landscapes.
With its serene atmosphere and breathtaking vistas, the Cherohala Skyway is an underappreciated gem. Experience the tranquility and natural wonder of this scenic drive, where peace and beauty await around every bend. This is a journey that celebrates the splendor of the Appalachian wilderness.
14. U.S. Route 191 – Utah (Blanding to Bluff)
The stretch of U.S. Route 191 from Blanding to Bluff in Utah offers a journey through remote red rock canyons and Navajo lands. Once crowded with national park spillover traffic, it now remains largely untraveled, offering a stillness that complements its raw beauty.
The road winds through stunning landscapes, where the red rock formations provide a dramatic backdrop to the serene drive. The isolation of this route allows travelers to connect deeply with the environment, making it a perfect escape for those seeking solitude and inspiration.
This drive invites a sense of exploration and wonder, with each mile revealing more of Utah’s unique natural beauty. Experience the quiet majesty of the red rock canyons and the spiritual presence of the Navajo lands along U.S. Route 191. It’s a road that speaks to the soul, offering peace and reflection amidst its stunning scenery.
15. Ohio’s Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
Ohio’s Hocking Hills Scenic Byway, once popular among Midwest hikers and weekenders, now offers a quieter escape during the shoulder seasons. The route winds through rock gorges, past waterfalls, and across forested ridges, creating a picturesque setting for a peaceful weekend drive.
The byway’s serene atmosphere allows for a deep connection with nature, where the sounds of rushing water and the rustling leaves provide a soothing soundtrack. The lack of crowds means you can explore the area’s natural wonders at your own pace, enjoying the tranquility that comes with solitude.
This scenic drive is a haven for those seeking a retreat into nature’s beauty, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Discover the charm of Hocking Hills as a peaceful escape, where every turn reveals a new opportunity to connect with the landscape. Experience the quiet elegance of Ohio’s natural splendor along this scenic byway.
