"Byways," the roads that are part of the National Scenic Byways Program, stunning and storied routes, the roads most-traveled including famous ones like the Blue Ridge Parkway, Route 66, Seward Highway, Big Sur Coast Highway, and Florida Keys Overseas Highway, offer unique scenic, historic, or recreational travel experiences across various states.
To be designated as a National Scenic Byway, a byway must meet the criteria for at least one of six "intrinsic qualities": archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, and scenic. The features contributing to the distinctive characteristics of the corridor’s intrinsic quality are recognized throughout the region and are considered regionally significant.
To be designated as an All-American Road, a byway must meet criteria for at least two intrinsic qualities that are nationally significant and have one-of-a-kind features that do not exist elsewhere. The road or highway must also be considered a "destination unto itself." That is, the road must provide an exceptional traveling experience so recognized by travelers that they would make a drive along the highway a primary reason for their trip.
If you're looking to make some road trip memories of your own, these scenic byways are among the oldest in the US.
the Historic National Road Scenic Byway
Dates to between 1811 and 1834 when Thomas Jefferson was in office, and authorized the construction of the road back in 1806. Originally called the Cumberland Road, the highway spanned 620 miles, connecting Cumberland, Maryland, to St. Louis, Missouri, and serving as the main route for settlers moving westward across the US.
the Historic Columbia River Highway in Oregon with emerald forests, snow-capped mountains, crystal clear lakes, and majestic waterfalls, and some of the country's most enchanting outdoor wonders thrive in the northwestern corner of the US.
Built between 1913 and 1922, the 74-mile stretch of highway is the oldest in the US, and is still drivable today. Traveling from just outside of Troutdale, it's the gateway to the Columbia River Gorge, whose quaint downtown boasts shops, brews, and eateries – and ends in the state's best-kept secret sun-drenched town, The Dalles. You can drive the whole thing in about an hour
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