Exploring the Rocky Mountains isn’t just about hiking trails and scenic overlooks.
The true essence is captured when you drive through its breathtaking mountain roads, each offering a unique view and experience.
From the high tundras to serene valleys, these roads provide an unparalleled journey.
Here are the ten mountain roads that are an absolute must-drive to complete your Rocky Mountain adventure.
Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
In Glacier National Park, Going-to-the-Sun Road stands as a marvel of modern engineering. The road winds through jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and lush valleys, offering a view that’s nothing short of spectacular.
Each twist and turn reveals a new landscape, making every mile an adventure. This road is open seasonally, so timing your visit is crucial.
The backdrop of the Rocky Mountains becomes your constant companion, leaving you with memories of a true bucket-list drive. Even seasoned travelers find something new with each visit.
Trail Ridge Road (Colorado)
Trail Ridge Road in Colorado is the highest continuous paved road in the U.S., a fact that adds to its allure. As you drive above 12,000 feet, the world below seems distant and surreal.
Cutting through Rocky Mountain National Park, the road is famed for its alpine tundra views. The feeling of driving above the world is both liberating and humbling.
Keep an eye out for wildlife, as they often make appearances along this route. Whether under a clear blue sky or amidst swirling clouds, it’s a drive that captivates at every turn.
Icefields Parkway (Alberta, Canada)
Connecting Jasper and Banff National Parks, Icefields Parkway is often heralded as one of the most scenic highways on Earth. The turquoise lakes and towering glaciers make for a visual feast.
Wildlife sightings are common, and you might spot elk or bears from the comfort of your car. Every mile offers a new spectacle.
The ever-changing landscape ensures that no two drives are the same. From sunrise to sunset, the Parkway provides a cinematic backdrop for your journey. It’s a place where nature’s grandeur is on full display.
Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)
The Million Dollar Highway, a stretch of U.S. Route 550 in Colorado, is not for the faint-hearted. Its steep cliffs and tight turns, coupled with a lack of guardrails, demand respect.
But the payoff is in the vistas—unforgettable views that leave an indelible mark on your memory. Between Ouray and Silverton, the road is carved into the mountainside, providing both thrills and beauty.
Some say it’s the adrenaline rush that makes it memorable. Others are captivated by the sheer magnificence of the landscape. Either way, it’s a must-drive in the Rockies.
Beartooth Highway (Montana/Wyoming)
Beartooth Highway, often dubbed ‘the most beautiful drive in America,’ lives up to its reputation. Twisting through switchbacks at almost 11,000 feet, the road offers dramatic, panoramic views.
As you ascend, the landscape changes from lush forests to barren tundra, each more breathtaking than the last.
Travelers often find themselves pausing at various overlooks, simply to take it all in. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this high-altitude drive is a testament to nature’s splendor and the allure of the Rockies.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway (Colorado)
The Mount Evans Scenic Byway in Colorado offers a journey into the sky. As North America’s highest paved road, it ends near a 14,000-ft summit.
The climb is both thrilling and rewarding, with opportunities to spot mountain goats and vibrant wildflowers. The vast Front Range views spread out before you, creating a striking tableau.
This road is perfect for those seeking both adventure and tranquility. The crisp mountain air and expansive vistas make for an unforgettable driving experience. It’s a journey that touches the sky.
Bow Valley Parkway (Alberta, Canada)
For those seeking a quieter, more intimate drive through Banff National Park, Bow Valley Parkway is a perfect choice. Unlike its busier counterpart, the Icefields Parkway, it offers a serene escape.
The road meanders through forests and valleys, home to deer and bears that occasionally greet travelers. Each bend offers a new scene, a reminder of nature’s artistry.
This road feels like a step into a postcard, capturing the essence of the Rockies in a way few places can. It’s a drive that soothes the soul and ignites the spirit.
Highwood Pass (Kananaskis Country, Alberta)
Highwood Pass, the highest paved pass in Canada, is a hidden gem that beckons the discerning traveler. Often overlooked, its beauty is in its serene landscapes.
The road winds through open meadows and rugged peaks, offering vistas that are both calming and awe-inspiring. It’s less trafficked, providing a more peaceful drive.
For those who venture here, the rewards are plentiful—pristine nature and solitude. This drive is a celebration of the Rockies’ quieter side, where each moment is steeped in tranquility.
Lolo Pass (Montana/Idaho Border)
Tucked away on the Montana-Idaho border, Lolo Pass is a lesser-known gem that offers a more tranquil Rocky Mountain driving experience.
Winding through dense evergreen forests and following the historic route of Lewis and Clark, the pass blends natural beauty with cultural significance. Expect sweeping views, rich wildlife, and a sense of serene isolation that contrasts beautifully with the more crowded scenic highways.
It’s the kind of drive that makes you slow down—in the best way.
San Juan Skyway (Colorado)
The San Juan Skyway in Colorado is a loop that offers more than just stunning landscapes. It takes you through historic mountain towns rich in culture.
The drive includes the famous Million Dollar Highway but also expands to places like Telluride and Durango. Each town offers a unique glimpse into Colorado’s vibrant history and culture.
The road itself is a tapestry of beauty and history, weaving through some of the Rockies’ most dramatic scenery. It’s a journey where the past and present coexist harmoniously, offering both visual and cultural delights.