myscenicdrives.com newest drives

New York: Catskill Mountain

Exploring the southern part of Upstate New York, the Scenic 30 is an idyllic country road that begins at East Branch from the NY-17 interchange in Hancock (near the border of New York and Pennsylvania). Travel through the charming, small towns of the Catskill Mountains to Esperance, NY, and discover a region steeped in early American history and endless natural beauty of rolling mountain vistas.

Vroman’s Nose

The hamlets of Shinhopple, Corbett, Colchester and Downsville are nestled in the mountains along the east branch of the Delaware River that flows into the Pepacton Reservoir. The road skirts the shores of the reservoir, winding its way to the village of Margaretville.

Margaretville dates back to the early 1700s and is famous for being the hometown of Dr. Orvan Hess, inventor of the fetal heart monitor. Its natural beauty has been coveted as a location for several feature films.

Here you can continue straight on NY-30 or take advantage of the following activities that lie east of here by turning right on NY-28.

In Arkville, climb aboard the Delaware and Ulster Railroad (A1) for a 2-hour trip back in time. The Arkville station retains its historic charm featuring many original items such as lanterns, china, keys and printed materials. Once known as “The Most Scenic Rail Line in the East”, the train travels to Roxbury Station. The railroad is open from Memorial Day weekend throughout the fall foliage season. Check the website for schedule and prices.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

Florida: A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway

Sporting a distinct Spanish flair, the A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway is officially made up of three separate state scenic highways — the Scenic and Historic A1A, A1A River and Sea Trail, and A1A Ocean Shore which link a string of dazzling barrier islands. This spectacular coastal drive begins near Jacksonville, in Ponte Vedra Beach, which is approximately 10 miles from I-95, exit 289 (Palm Coast Parkway). With year-round sunshine and the magical draw of the beach, almost every stop can be a day long activity, so if possible, plan on more than one day to take full advantage of this drive.

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Ponte Vedra Beach has the distinction of being renowned for two sports, golf and tennis. The PGA Tour and the Player’s Championship are played here on the iconic TPC Sawgrass (A1) designed by legendary Pete Dye. Channel your inner Nicklaus, as the two golf courses are open to the public. As well, scattered throughout this drive are golf courses designed by the greats — Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Rees Jones, and Gary Player. If tennis is your game, the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club is known as the “Official Tennis Club of the ATP World Tour” and here you can play on pro courts or improve your backhand with lessons. Don’t worry — if lounging on the beach — or shopping is more your style, all that and more is covered in Ponte Vedra Beach.

Unplug and rejuvenate in unspoiled natural beauty. Traveling alongside FL-A1A, is the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (A2). Protecting over 73,000-acres, the reserve is home to vast and impressive array of plants and wildlife including armadillos, tortoises, deer and alligators. Located along the Atlantic Flyway, a migratory path for land and water fowl, spot bald eagles and the rare roseate spoonbill. Pack an ample supply of water, insect repellant, sunhat, sunscreen, sunglasses and snacks to enjoy ten miles of nature trails for hiking, biking and on weekdays, (except holidays), horseback riding. Or, get in a kayak or canoe to explore salt marsh, mangrove tidal wetlands, oyster bars, and estuarine lagoons. There are three parking lots off FL-A1A with access points. The South Ponte Vedra Beach parking lot offers accessible walkways over the dunes leading to coquina sand beaches.

Learn more about the GTMNERR at the Environmental Education Center which features video presentations, a live aquarium, hands on activities and well-designed exhibits especially geared to children. Examine Indian artifacts, fossils and learn about the ecosystem and its inhabitants or participate in interpretive walks. There is a small admission fee for the Center which supports conservation and outreach efforts.

Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the nation’s oldest continuously-occupied city and offers much to explore. Stroll cobblestones streets while visiting unique shops, cafes and art galleries. Or step back in time to discover a rich history by visiting these engaging sites.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

Florida: Florida Keys

This drive seems to float across the sparkling turquoise water between the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. Drive across 43 bridges, one of them 7-miles long, pass 59 Keys and the only living coral reef in North America. Add in beautiful weather year-round, expansive views, exotic flora and fauna and you have all the ingredients for the perfect getaway.

Underwater Coral

The drive begins in Florida City on US-1 heading south to the Overseas Highway and the dazzling string of islands from Key Largo to Key West.

Just after joining the Overseas Highway, turn left on S Andros Road to visit the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park (H1). Much of surrounding region has been saved from development and this park is testament to that, protecting one of the largest tracts of West Indian hardwood hammock in the United States. Explore 84 rare species of plants and animals, including wild cotton and mahogany mistletoe. Among the many tropical birds that reside here are the white-crowned pigeon, mangrove cuckoo and black-whiskered vireo, as well as a dizzying array of butterflies such as the Schaus’ swallowtail, silver-banded hairstreak, and mangrove skippers. Many of the trails are paved and accessible, allowing for leisurely discovery or cycling. A small entrance fee of $2 per person is charged and correct change is required.

Key Largo is the largest of the Florida Keys and there are a zillion things to do. Consider a stop at the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce (I3) on the gulf side for brochures and maps, many of which offer coupons for local attractions. The water beckons and there are a myriad of charters available for any type of excursion. Extreme or serene, you will find the right one for you whether a guided boat tour, kayaking, snorkeling, deep-sea diving, jet-skiing, swimming with dolphins, turtle encounters and sport fishing. Consider making this adventure an overnight getaway with superb dining on fresh-caught seafood, quirky tiki bars and stellar shopping.

Back on the Overseas Highway, dive enthusiasts will love the unique Jules’ Undersea Lodge, the world’s only underwater hotel. Truly a “dive,” spend the night, take a diving excursion or lessons.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

Florida: Indian River Lagoon

Known as Florida’s Space Coast for its proximity to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, this drive is a fascinating mix of futuristic innovation and natural beauty millions of years in the making. The drive begins in Titusville and heads south on US-1, traveling along the Space Coast and an estuary brimming with wildlife. This fragile estuary contains more species of fish, animals and birds than any other estuary in North America including 53 species that are threatened or endangered.

Manatee

Just before leaving Titusville, consider a stop at the spectacular 140,000-acre Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge (H1), an important migratory stop for birds along the Atlantic Flyway and a haven for wildlife such as sea turtles, bobcat, alligators and manatees, the latter of which can be observed from a viewing platform. Explore seven distinct habitats on your own or take part in programs such as guided nature walks, birding tours, photography clubs and more. Stop in the Visitor Center for information, exhibits and film presentation. Just outside is access to boardwalk trails. Or explore the abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery by kayak or canoe. If you have time, don’t miss the Black Point Wildlife Drive. This self-guided 7-mile drive takes approximately 40 minutes and provides an excellent opportunity to see alligators, river otters, snakes, waterfowl and more. The best viewing is 1 or 2 hours after sunrise and 1 or 2 hours before sunset while animals are actively feeding. Pick up an interpretive brochure at the entrance. There is a small fee for the drive, visiting the refuge is free.

The aptly named Space View Park and United States Space Walk of Fame Museum (M1) was once the premier spot to watch shuttle launches with perfect views of the launch pads across Indian River and a live feed direct from NASA control. Though the shuttle program has come to an end — the park will be a great place to observe whatever the future holds for space exploration. But the park is still a must see and offers an exciting glimpse into space exploration. Stroll the awe-inspiring U.S. Walk of Fame, grand monuments for the Mercury, Gemini, Apollo and Shuttle missions and for those who braved a new frontier, compare your handprints to those of the mercury Astronauts and view mission logos carved in black granite. Also on site is the Space Walk of Fame Museum which displays intriguing artifacts from past space missions and is a wealth of information. The park and museum are free. The museum is closed on Sunday.

Take the NASA Causeway heading south across to FL-3 to continue on our scenic drive.

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (A1) is a vast and incredible place. One can easily spend the whole day here, so if this is one of your stops — plan this drive accordingly. Admission is expensive but much is included. Explore the Rocket Garden — where truly outer-worldly rockets stand tall and climb in for a front row seat, meet veteran astronauts at the daily Astronaut Encounter, experience a dramatic Shuttle Launch Simulation, gaze upon a real Saturn V rocket, learn about the Hubble telescope, watch IMAX films, and so much more. Your ticket can also be used within 7 days to explore the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame (M6). Among the many exhibits is the world’s largest collection of astronaut’s personal memorabilia. You cannot help but be inspired and humbled.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

Florida: Panhandle

The allure of glistening white Appalachian quartz sands and deep emerald green waters is mesmerizing. Hugging the coastline of Escambia Bay and the Gulf of Mexico in Walton County, this drive delivers with stunning scenery and friendly beach communities, each with its own unique vibe. Find a myriad of recreation opportunities as well as a string of spectacular state parks, rare coastal dune lakes, historic sites, and oh, let’s not forget fabulous shopping and dining. Whether you live nearby or are just visiting, exploring the Panhandle is a true getaway.

Pensacola beach dunes

We begin our drive on the Pensacola Scenic Bluffs Highway (US-90). This treasure travels along the Escambia River south to the Bayou Texar Bridge. From I-10, take exit 17 for US-90 West.

Stop at Chimney Park (H2), named for the Hyer-Knowles Planing Mill Chimney, now on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in the mid-1850s, the chimney is a remnant of an early steam power plant, destroyed during the Civil War by Confederate forces to keep it out of enemy hands. The original bricks were handmade by slaves in a nearby brick factory.

Continue on US-90, passing forested wetlands and quaint towns. Make your next stop the 32-acre Bay Bluffs Park (H1). Here you will find unique red clay bluffs (once use for brick making) and the highest natural vantage point along the entire Florida coastline. Have your camera ready for expansive views overlooking Escambia Bay, and a backdrop of longleaf pine, magnolia and live oak forest. Walk down the extensive boardwalk to the base of the cliffs for a different perspective.

Just below the bridge is Pensacola Bay Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (A2) featuring a wayside park, making this a great stop for watching waterfowl, gulls, and terns as well as to get regional information.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

California: Pinnacles National Park

This is a lovely back roads country drive that takes you up hill and down dale passing ranch land and ancient moss-draped oak trees. Though stunning year-round, this area is particularly spectacular in springtime, when the gentle rolling hills are a vibrant shade of green dotted with the dazzling colors of poppies and other wildflowers. Turn off the US-101 42 miles north of Paso Robles onto CA-198.

Pinnacles National Park

In 14 miles take a left turn onto CA-25 and continue north. You will be traveling through a valley between the Coast Mountain Range on the left and the Diablo Mountain Range on the right. Ranches, farms and orchards are prevalent here and along with cattle and horses grazing in the fields, you will find roadside stands offering fresh picked produce. Just beyond the turnoff to the town of San Benito is the entrance to Pinnacles National Park.

Designated the 59th U.S. National Park in January 2013, Pinnacles National Park is a geological marvel born into existence by a volcanic eruption 23 million years ago approximately 195 miles south in the Lancaster area of Southern California. Lying along the San Andreas Fault, plate tectonics split the rocks and moved the massive mountain, historically 8000 feet in height and five miles wide, north to where it rests now. The settling of debris and erosion have sculpted the exposed ramparts, leaving towering pillars, massive walls and talus caves that are now the crowning glory of Pinnacles.

Pinnacles National Park has two entrances, one to the west off US-101 at Soledad and to the east on CA-146 where our drive continues. At the Pinnacles National Park Visitor Center (I1) you will find information on ranger-led programming, various hiking trails, rock climbing routes, displays on the flora and fauna and the geologic history of the region.

Explore the wonders via an easy hike on Bench Trail (some parts are wheelchair accessible), which travels along the scrubby brush chaparral landscape. More moderate is the 2.2-mile Moses Spring to Rim Trail Loop which passes fascinating rock formations, caves and reservoir. If you’re up for a very strenuous climb, consider the Condor Gulch to High Peaks Loop which cuts through the heart of Pinnacles breathtaking rock formations revealing jaw-dropping views.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

Florida: Tamiami Trail

Connecting Tampa to Miami, the Tamiami Trail consists of the last 275-miles of Highway 41 and is an engineering feat, built through forest and the swampy Everglades. This drive is known as the Windows to the Gulf Coast Water Scenic Highway and is a dynamic mix of old and new Florida, culture and architecture, a tropical wonderland, unassuming and just plain flashy. There is just so much to do and see along this drive, consider staying over a day or two or more!

Big Cypress Swamp National Preserve

The drive begins on Highway 41 and is described heading southeast but can be done in either direction. From Tampa, head east on I-4 and take exit 3, following the signs for US-41 towards Miami. From Miami, follow the US-1 north and shortly after joining onto I-95, take exit 1B for US-41.

In the town of Ruskin visit Cockroach Bay Preserve State Park (H1). Two paddling trails explore coves and inlets as they wind past the tangled and twisted branches of a mangrove forest. This forest acts as a nursery for snook, red drum and other game fish and creates submerged habitats including oyster bars, seagrass beds, coral communities and springfed caves. Enjoy this popular fishing destination or embark on a guided kayak tour.

The Palmetto Historical Park (H2) offers an exciting way to immerse yourself in the history of Palmetto. Exploring the different exhibits and buildings, check for mail at the 1880 Post Office, visit the Schoolhouse opened in 1935 and try on pioneer clothing in the Cottage Museum. Don’t miss the Military Museum, Chapel and 1914 Carnegie Library built in 1914. The Palmetto Historical Park is free to enter.

As you enter Bradenton, turn right onto FL-64 (Manatee Ave). When you reach 75th Ave SW, turn right to visit the De Soto National Memorial (A2), where you can learn the story of Conquistador Hernando de Soto who in 1539 landed in Tampa Bay in hopes of conquering the land and riches. Instead they were fiercely resisted by the indigenous people. See costumed-interpreters presenting talks, demonstrating weaponry and craft-making at the Living History Camp Uzita open from December to April. The Visitor’s Center features displays of armor, weapons and period Spanish and Native American artifacts. Explore the natural history through interpretive trails that meander by mangrove forests, pine flatlands and remnant shell ridges. The Memorial is free to enter.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

Delaware: Mouth of the Delaware to Brandywine

Stunning natural scenery of rolling hills and valleys, formal gardens, romance and history await along this scenic drive from Dover, Delaware to Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. This land of Du Pont fame is steeped in opulence, innovation and discovery. Wildlife refuges abound along the route, creating a unique network of land and water — home to a vast array of birds and wildlife.

To reach the start of the drive, head east on East Division Street, which becomes North Little Creek Road and DE-8 after passing DE-1. Before leaving Dover, consider a visit to one of the many museums including the John Dickinson Plantation (A4), home of John Dickinson, one of the founding fathers of the United States, signer of the Constitution, and “Penman of the Revolution.” Re-enactments with costumed interpreters examine the era and its people, from the wealthy Dickinson family, poor whites, slaves and free blacks during the 1700s and early 1800s. The Plantation itself is located southeast of the Dover Air Force Base on Kitts Hummock Road (County Road 68). The Johnson Victrola Museum (M5) pays homage to Delaware’s native son, Eldridge Reeves Johnson, who founded the Victor Talking Machine Company in 1901. Learn about the company’s contribution to early radio days, sound recording, listen to music on original Victor machines, and delight in the Nipper collectibles, the iconic fox/bull terrier who became the corporate symbol. Visit the restored Old State House (A5) built in 1791, one of the oldest state-house buildings in the U.S. All of these museums are free, donations appreciated.

Driving east on DE-8 for 4 miles, turn left to head north on DE-9. In a few miles, you will arrive at the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge (T1). Explore via the 12-mile Auto Tour which begins on Dutch Neck Road. Each numbered stop is explained on a brochure that you can pick up at the entrance or Visitor Center. Observe diverse habitats, such as woodland forest home to white-tailed-deer, opossum, fox as well as tidal salt marsh host to more than 100,000 migrating greater snow geese. Get a closer look on one or more of the five walking trails, two of which are handicapped accessible. Behold beaver, muskrat, blue herons, bald eagles ducks and more at Finis Pool. There is an entrance fee covered by the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass.

In a few miles, you arrive at the Woodland Beach Wildlife Area (A1) which protects coastal prairie and tidal marsh for resident and migratory birds. A 3-mile road traverses the peaceful refuge. There are boardwalks and an observation tower, perfect for photography and wildlife viewing. Note that the refuges are open to public hunting, so please wear blaze orange — or avoid these areas during hunting season.

Continuing north, you will pass developed farmland interspersed with many more wildlife refuges along the Delaware River, including the Cedar Swamp State Wildlife Management Area, Appoquinimink Wildlife Area, Silver Run Wildlife Area, and the Augustine State Wildlife Management Area. Each offers stunning views and wildlife watching opportunities. Stop as time allows.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

New Jersey: Kittatinny Ridge Loop

So close to the hustle and bustle of major cities, it’s hard to imagine that endless mountains, rolling hills and valleys await nearby. This scenic drive travels around the flat-topped Kittatinny Ridge, a haven for wildlife watching, hiking, water recreation and exploring charming historic towns.

The Kittatinny Ridge Loop

Beginning at the Delaware Water Gap our scenic drive does a clock-wise loop towards Newton, but it can be done in either direction. To reach the Delaware River Gap, take exit 1 off I-80. A mere 420 million years in the making, the gap was created by shifting tectonic plates and the colliding of headwater streams, sand and rock which carved outstanding beauty through a large ridge of the Appalachian Mountains. On the New Jersey side you see Mt. Tammany and across the Delaware River in Pennsylvania is Mt. Minsi.

Stop first at Kittatinny Point Visitor Center (I1) near exit 1. Nestled at the foot of Mt. Tammany, learn about the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and get information about hiking, backpacker camping and more. The visitor center is open daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

The preservation of this vast natural treasure is an important habitat for bald eagles, peregrine falcons, deer, bears, bobcat and a diverse array of plants. Leaving from the Visitor Center is Old Mine Road (T1), considered to be one of the oldest continually-used roads in the United States. The road is thought to have begun as a Paleo Indian foot trail, and used as trail wagon road used to convey American Revolutionary War regiments. Today it is a paved, narrow winding road that travels along the Delaware River and through the entire Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Our scenic route follows this road. Note that Old Mine Road is closed in winter.

You begin traveling through the Worthington State Forest. Serene yet rugged, there are many trails that allow for a rigorous workout or leisurely stroll and picnic. A demanding climb to the top of Mt. Tammany at 1527 ft. above sea level rewards with stellar panoramic views. There are two trails leading up: Mt. Tammany via the Red Dot Trail is a steep and rocky 1.5 mile climb and Mt. Tammany via the Blue Blazed Trail, which is a more gradual 2.5 mile climb on wide trails. Twenty-seven miles of the Appalachian Trail pass through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The Appalachian Trail extends along the spine of the Appalachian Mountains from Springer Mountain, Georgia, to Mt. Katahdin in Baxter State Park, Maine, traversing 2,174 miles through 14 states and is a draw for hikers.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

New Jersey: Delaware Valley

Just about an hour from New York City and Philadelphia, lies an incredible scenic drive beginning in Trenton, NJ and traveling to Frenchtown, exploring the Delaware River, charming riverside communities and historic sites critical to the American Revolution.

You can reach NJ-29 from either US-1 or Calhoun Street (or Trenton Ave in Pennsylvania). The road parallels the Delaware River along the Pennsylvania border and is visible throughout most of the drive.

In the heart of downtown Trenton, visit the fascinating New Jersey State House (A1). Guided tours are offered but note, advance reservations are highly recommended. There is so much to discover at the nearby New Jersey State Museum (M2). Established in 1895, explore fabulous varied collections, encompassing archeology, fine art, New Jersey’s cultural history, natural history and a planetarium. The museum is free and closed Mondays.

Traveling on NJ-29, stop at the Washington Crossing State Park (H1). It is here, on Christmas night 1776, that George Washington led his army over the Delaware River to execute a surprise attack on Trenton, capturing the Hessian garrison and turning the tide of the American Revolution. Examine almost 600 artifacts from the Revolutionary War era and learn more at the Washington Crossing Visitor Center Museum. Interpretive programs and lectures are available with advance reservations. Strolling through the park also discover the Ferry House, Nelson House and open air theater. The 1,400 acre park also features miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing and makes for a great picnic spot. In winter, enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. There is a small day-use fee to enter from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

A few miles ahead is the 70-mile Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park (H2) which preserves a Canal and Feeder Canal built in 1834, as well as a number of beautiful 19th-century grist and linseed oil mills, wooden bridges, historic buildings and locks. You can also enjoy canoeing, boating and fishing. Each spring the canal is stocked with bass, sunfish, catfish, perch, pickerel and trout. The park offers a variety of nature programs, guided walking, biking or kayak tours and much more. Check the park website program calendar for monthly listings. A paved historic towpath travels along both canals is extremely popular for jogging, cycling and horseback riding and is ADA accessible. The park and towpath runs the entire length of this drive to Frenchtown, and each section has its own charms and historic points of interest.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

New Jersey: The Wallkill

Numerous back roads lace the countryside in Sussex County, beckoning the traveler to explore. This scenic drive follows the Wallkill River, where you will discover quaint towns, a rich mining history, and breathtaking pastoral scenery, expansive vistas and rolling hills. There is a growing agritourism here, with tours, pick your own farms, horseback riding and more, so be sure to indulge along the way. Beautiful any season, this drive is ablaze with color in fall. This drive ends in the town of Sussex, not far from the New York and Pennsylvania borders.

Along the Wallkill

We begin in Sparta, on County Road 517, and the source of the Wallkill River, Lake Mohawk. The lake was dammed in 1926 and is the largest artificial lake in New Jersey. Attractions here include the 1000-foot boardwalk over the north end of the lake and White Deer Plaza named after Princess White Deer, a Mohawk entertainer. The lake was also named in honor of her tribe. The Plaza contains a wide variety of unique shops, restaurants and the Lake Mohawk Country Club all of which were built in the “Lake Mohawk Tudor style” (reminiscent of English cottages, Tudor, and German Baronial structures) and are on the National Register of Historic Places.

Continue on CR 517 to the small town of Ogdensburg where mining for iron, zinc and limestone was once the prime industry. Ogdensburg, and the nearby town of Franklin on Route 632, are home to the world’s most famous zinc mines. The Franklin mine is known for mineral fluorescence and a variety of rare mineral species. Learn more at the Franklin Mineral Museum (M1), which features over 4,000 mineral specimens, dazzling fluorescent displays, as well as Native American stone tools and artifacts. There are guided tours and visitors can do a little mining of their own at three collecting areas. A picnic area and a gift shop also make up the complex. There is an admission fee.

At the Sterling Hill Mine Tour and Museum (M2) in Ogdensburg, visitors can peruse exhibits housed in the original mining buildings once used by the New Jersey Zinc Company. The museum is the only one in New Jersey where visitors can access an underground zinc mine 1,300 feet below and see first-hand how mining was performed. In the Zobel Exhibit Hall, explore over 20,000 mining related artifacts including local fluorescent minerals. The museum also features 1,800 square feet of displays of fluorescent minerals, a fossil discovery center and the Ellis Astronomical Observatory. There is an admission fee.

County Road 517 then connects with State Route 23 where you should head north towards Hamburg. Interested in quirky roadside attractions? Detour on Gingerbread Castle Road to see the incredible Gingerbread Castle (A1), designed by world-renowned architect Joseph Urban. The castle was built between 1928-1930 to tell the story of Hansel and Gretel and features candy cane towers, cake icing turrets and other unusual design ornaments. Once the centerpiece of an amusement park, the castle is now closed and has since fallen into serious disrepair. There is hope that one day it will be restored.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

Maine: Mount Desert Island

Dramatic rocky cliffs, majestic water views both serene and thunderous and the graceful stream of whales, seals or migratory birds await on Mount Desert Island. The highest point along the North Atlantic seaboard was created by the push of tectonic plates millions of years ago. They would be higher if not for glaciers that sheared off the tops. And it is these glaciers and their melting that we have to thank for the stunning vistas and rich environment almost entirely encompassed by Acadia National Park.

Acadia National Park

This scenic drive on Bar Harbor, is a figure-eight loop around Mount Desert Island which begins on ME-3 after crossing the bridge from Trenton. To get there, head north on US-1 from Ellsworth and south on ME-3. This is a great side trip from our Maine’s Big Sur scenic drive.

Prepare your journey with a stop at one of the Visitor Centers. As you reach the island, and open from mid-May to mid-October, the Thompson Island Visitor Center (I1) offers interpretive displays and information about the park, maps, books and ranger-led activities. Open from April 15 through October 31, the Hulls Cove Visitor Center (I2) is the best place to get touring information and learn about the island from the free 15-minute audiovisual presentation. The Acadia Park Headquarters (I3) in Bar Harbor is open year-round. Note that most facilities, campgrounds and roads are closed in winter.

Heading south on ME-3, stop at the Mount Desert Oceanarium (M1), where you can discover the ocean’s marine life up-close. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the Lobster Hatchery, touch-tanks, marsh trail and learning about the endangered North Atlantic right whales and steps to protect them. There is a fee to enter.

A few miles ahead, Acadia National Park and the Hulls Cove Visitor Center (I2) will be on your right. An entrance fee to the park is charged which is covered by the America the Beautiful Annual Pass. Acadia National Park is a natural wonder with no end to the breathtaking views. It also offers a seemingly limitless array of recreation including hiking, biking, canoeing and kayaking, rock climbing, camping, a stroll along untouched wilderness, wildflower meadows, and the rugged rocky coast.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

Maine: Maine’s Big Sur

Maine’s Highway 1 hugs the winding coast similar to California’s Big Sur, but here you will discover the rugged Atlantic Coast, replete with history, culture, lighthouses, pristine natural splendor and the decadent flavors of the ocean’s bounty.

Pemaquid Lighthouse

Our scenic drive is described starting in Brunswick and follows US-1 to Calais, but as with many of our scenic drives, you can begin in either direction or just enjoy small sections of it. Some of the activities we recommend are scenic detours, so keep this in mind when planning this trip.

Much of this extraordinary landscape has been shaped by the last Ice Age. Glaciers smoothed the hills and when they melted, rushing water created wonderful islands and fjord-like bays.

To reach Brunswick, take exit 28 off I-295 and follow US-1 east. Gateway to the beautiful mid-coast region, this historic town has been explored by European settlers since the early 1600s and is home to the first college in Maine, Bowdoin College. Stroll downtown on Park Row to discover beautiful architecture, many of these homes on the National Register of Historic Places. Celebrating Civil War General and hero, is the Joshua L. Chamberlain Museum (M3), which features many personal and civil war artifacts. The museum is preserved by the Pejepscot Historical Society, and offers guided tours. There is a fee to enter and combination tickets are available to tour the Skolfield-Whittier House as well. This stunning Victorian home was built between 1858 and 1862 and features original furniture and art. Both are open from Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Art lovers will not want to miss the Bowdoin College Museum of Art (M6) with paintings from Fra Angelico to Rene Magritte, decorative arts, sculpture and much more. The museum is free of charge, although donations are welcome. Tucked away from downtown, stunning views of wildflowers, birds, and the river await on the Androscoggin River Bicycle and Pedestrian Path (A8). The 2.6-mile paved trail is a delight for walkers, joggers and cyclists. Parking is available at either end, at Water Street and Cook’s Corner.

Traveling north on US-1, you soon arrive in Bath. The downtown preserves its historic charm, and was recently named Best Main Street in America. Quintessential New England architecture, local shops and a range of dining options make for a nice stop. The Maine Maritime Museum (M1) explores the maritime heritage of the region beginning with its heyday of wooden shipbuilding. Among the exhibits are thousands of artifacts, photographs, maps and a full size metal sculpture of the “Wyoming”, the world’s largest wooden ship. Included with the entrance fee which is valid for two days within a week, are tours of the Percy & Small Historic Shipyard with original buildings tools and equipment and the Donnell House, the Victorian era home of a shipbuilder.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

California: Malibu to Lompoc

This drive begins on CA-1 on the east side of Malibu Creek Bridge at the historic Malibu Sport Fishing Pier. The name Malibu is derived from the Chumash word “Humaliwo” meaning “the surf sounds loudly” and throughout this drive you will be treated to the rhythmic music of the ocean. The Pier was originally built in 1905 to transport agricultural produce, building materials and basic supplies to and from the colony. Today, it hosts a variety of businesses where you can rent kayaks, surfboards and paddle boards, go on a charter fishing boat or whale watching excursion, or indulge in the myriad of beach-side dining and shopping opportunities.

To the west of the Pier is Malibu Lagoon State Beach (W1). Also known as Surfrider Beach, it is world-renowned for its three-point break that delights surfers with exhilarating 300-yard rides on a single wave. On the west side of Malibu Creek Bridge, there are picnic tables and a natural area, excellent for bird watching. The Southern California saltwater marsh, known as the Malibu Lagoon is actually an estuary where Malibu Creek meets the Pacific Ocean. Explore stunning water and cliff views, pelicans, egrets, tide pools and more on the Malibu Beach Trail. There is a fee for vehicle parking, no charge to walk or bike in.

Learn more about Malibu history and the Rindge family at the Adamson House, part of the Malibu Lagoon Museum (M11). Built in 1930, this National Historic Site features original furnishings and elaborate ceramic tiles designed by Malibu Potteries — characteristic of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. There is a fee to enter.

The Malibu Lagoon Museum contains artifacts and exhibits depicting local history from the early Chumash Indian era, gentleman ranching, and the pivotal development of the surfing era. There are docents available for tours who recant many interesting local legends. The museum is free.

We can’t mention Malibu without commenting on the strip known as the Malibu Colony. These star-studded beachfront properties are owned by Barbra Streisand, Tom Hanks, Dustin Hoffman, Robert Redford, Goldie Hawn, Pierce Brosnan and scores of other Hollywood stars. Don’t expect to drop in for tea as this area is well guarded, though stars have been spotted walking around town. It is an unwritten local rule that the famous are left alone.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive

Rhode Island: Rhode Island 77

This is a peaceful corner of Rhode Island, replete with miles of unspoiled shoreline, pasture, woodland and vineyards. Don’t miss sampling the regional flavors including the clear broth Rhode Island “Chowda” made with hearty chunks of potato and tender, juicy Quahog clams. Or deep fried delectable fish and seafood and Coffee Milk, a beverage created by mixing milk with coffee syrup. Work all that off with a long beach stroll — or two.

The scenic drive starts in Tiverton and travels to the end of RI-77 at Sakonnet Point. While the drive can be done in either direction, it is best enjoyed in the direction described here. To reach Tiverton, take exit 5 off RI-24. If you are coming from Massachusetts, you can reach RI-24 by taking exit 8A off I-295.

As you drive south along RI-77, the Sakonnet River, which is actually a tidal channel, lies to the west, and the largest of the Narragansett Bay islands, Rhode Island and the town of Portsmouth are visible.

You will then pass Nannaquaket Pond and a series of quaint, pastoral farms. In summer and fall, produce abounds and you can enjoy blueberries, grapes, peaches, strawberries, corn and more at road-side stands.

Just ahead on the right, bird and nature lovers will want to explore the Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge (H1). Fifty-acres of salt marsh and woodland offer spectacular views of the Sakonnet River and abundant wildlife watching. Stroll one of the three color-coded trails that leave from the parking area and tuck yourself into one of the blinds to observe and photograph the many inhabitants including the great egret, glossy ibis, great blue heron, and great horned owl. Take the Jack’s Island Trail, which leads to a peninsula and home to breeding osprey.

Continue reading... · Find another scenic drive