The Rocky Mountains stretch over 3,000 miles across North America, offering some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the continent. From snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes to winding canyons and alpine meadows, the region is a paradise for road trippers. In this guide, we explore the most beautiful drives in the Rockies, highlighting iconic routes, hidden gems, and practical tips to help you plan an unforgettable journey.
Trail Ridge Road – Colorado
Location: Rocky Mountain National Park Length: 48 miles Elevation: Up to 12,183 feet
Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the U.S., offering panoramic views of alpine tundra, wildlife, and rugged peaks. Connecting Estes Park to Grand Lake, this drive is a must for anyone exploring Colorado’s Rockies.
- 🌄 Highlights: Alpine Visitor Center, elk sightings, sweeping mountain vistas
- 🕒 Best Time: Late May to October (seasonal closures due to snow)
Icefields Parkway – Alberta, Canada
Location: Between Banff and Jasper National Parks Length: 144 miles (232 km)
Often ranked among the world’s most scenic drives, the Icefields Parkway showcases glaciers, waterfalls, and emerald lakes. It links two of Canada’s most iconic parks and offers countless photo opportunities.
- 🌊 Highlights: Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, Athabasca Falls
- 🕒 Best Time: June to September
Going-to-the-Sun Road – Montana
Location: Glacier National Park Length: 50 miles
This engineering marvel cuts through the heart of Glacier National Park, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. The road offers dramatic views of glacial valleys, alpine meadows, and towering peaks.
- 🌼 Highlights: Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, wildflower fields
- 🕒 Best Time: July to mid-September (weather permitting)
San Juan Skyway & Million Dollar Highway – Colorado
Location: Southwestern Colorado Length: 236 miles (loop); 25 miles (Million Dollar Highway segment)
The San Juan Skyway loops through historic mining towns and dramatic mountain passes. The Million Dollar Highway, between Silverton and Ouray, is famous for its steep cliffs and jaw-dropping views.
- 🏘️ Highlights: Telluride, Durango, Ouray, Mesa Verde National Park
- 🕒 Best Time: Late spring to early fall
Beartooth Highway – Montana & Wyoming
Location: Red Lodge, MT to Yellowstone National Park Length: 69 miles
Designated an All-American Road, Beartooth Highway climbs to nearly 11,000 feet, offering alpine lakes, switchbacks, and panoramic views. It’s a thrilling gateway to Yellowstone.
- 🏔️ Highlights: Beartooth Pass, Absaroka Wilderness, scenic pullouts
- 🕒 Best Time: June to September
Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway – Colorado
Location: Idaho Springs to Summit Lake Length: 28 miles
Formerly known as Mount Evans Scenic Byway, this route is the highest paved road in North America. It ascends over 7,000 feet, offering views of mountain goats, tundra, and Denver’s skyline.
- 🐐 Highlights: Summit Lake, alpine tundra, wildlife viewing
- 🕒 Best Time: Late May to early October
Teton Scenic Byway – Idaho
Location: Swan Valley to Ashton Length: 68 miles
This lesser-known route offers stunning views of the Grand Tetons from the Idaho side. It’s a peaceful alternative to busier roads and passes through charming prairie towns.
- 🏞️ Highlights: Snake River, Driggs, Tetonia, Grand Teton views
- 🕒 Best Time: May to October
Dinosaur Diamond Scenic Byway – Utah & Colorado
Location: Moab, UT to Grand Junction, CO Length: 512 miles (loop)
This prehistoric-themed drive winds through canyons, fossil sites, and national parks. It’s perfect for families and geology enthusiasts exploring the Southern Rockies.
- 🦴 Highlights: Arches National Park, Dinosaur National Monument, Colorado River
- 🕒 Best Time: Spring and fall
Tips for Driving in the Rockies
- ✅ Check road conditions—many routes close seasonally due to snow
- ✅ Fuel up early—remote areas may lack gas stations
- ✅ Pack layers—weather can change rapidly at high elevations
- ✅ Watch for wildlife—especially at dawn and dusk
- ✅ Bring a camera—you’ll want to capture every moment
Final Thoughts
Exploring the most beautiful drives in the Rockies is more than a road trip—it’s a journey through some of North America’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Whether you’re chasing glaciers in Canada, winding through alpine passes in Colorado, or cruising past wildflower meadows in Montana, these routes offer unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveler.
Ready to hit the road? Visit MyTripFaves.com for cheap flight deals, top-rated hotels, and more travel inspiration to plan your perfect Rocky Mountain adventure.
Let the mountains move you.
