Pile in a car and cruise our scenic byways. Here are five to consider:
1 The Beartooth Highway. Visitors who travel this extraordinary byway experience the visual trifecta of Montana, Wyoming and Yellowstone Park, home to the Absaroka and Beartooth mountains. The windy, cliff-hugging 68-mile stretch introduces road explorers to one of the most diverse ecosystems accessible by auto. It’s also the highest elevation highway in the Northern Rockies. The drive showcases high alpine plateaus, painted with patches of ice blue glacial lakes, forested valleys, waterfalls and wildlife.
2 Trail Ridge Road; Estes Park, Colo. During a 48-mile, two- to three-hour drive through majestic Rocky Mountain National Park, marvel at the park’s wildlife, crystalline lakes and jagged peaks. The nearby Continental Divide provides the opportunity to explain to the kids how the “roof of the continent” spills moisture to the east and the west from its apex. Consider a stop at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, which inspired Stephen King’s novel The Shining. Also, visit the charming town of Grand Lake, home of the largest natural lake in the state of Colorado.
Contact: colorado.com; nps.gov/romo/
3 Lighthouse Tour; Maine. Travel the 375 miles between Kittery and Calais, Maine, visiting lighthouses along the way, and learn about the dangers that seafaring vessels and their crews endured along the craggy Northeastern coast. Hear tales of shipwrecks and ghosts, and of the difficult and lonely life led by those who kept the lights burning brightly. Visit the Maine Lighthouse Museum, where artifacts and hands-on exhibits for children provide an enticing break.
Contact: mainelighthousemuseum.com; visitmaine.com
4 Monument Valley, Ariz. You’ve seen the skyline in the movies and on television commercials. Your family will marvel at the 250-million-year-old red rock formations, the magical light, the starry night and the Native American history that infuses the iconic landscape. Take in the 17-mile scenic loop road on your own or hire a guide to delve deeper into the storied region and to access off-limit areas. Overnight at The View hotel for the best chance to capture the incomparable sunrise and sunset hues. Don’t forget your cameras!
5 Skyline Drive, Va. Virginia’s Skyline Drive begins in Front Royal and twists and turns southwest through Shenandoah National Park. It meanders along the crest of the mountains through the woods and past spectacular vistas. Hike in the shade of oak trees along the Appalachian Trail, discover the stories from Shenandoah’s past, or explore the wilderness at your leisure.
Contact: 540-999-3500; nps.gov/shen
Lynn O’Rourke Hayes is the editor of familytravel.com.