The Carolinas’ roads wind through mountains, coastlines, and forests, serving up views that demand a slow roll. North and South Carolina’s scenic drives are adventures on wheels. These routes are the stunners to cruise.
1. Blue Ridge Parkway – NC
This 469-mile ribbon (252 in NC) snakes from Virginia to Cherokee, topping out at 6,000 feet. Highlights: Linville Falls and Mount Mitchell vistas. Fall foliage peaks in October; it’s free and open year-round. Best for: mountain majesty.
2. Cheraw to Georgetown – SC
Hwy 521 to US 17 (130 miles) cuts from Cheraw’s historic oaks to Georgetown’s marshy coast. Stop at Lake Wylie or Pawleys Island for pics. Spring blooms or summer sun work best. Best for: inland-to-ocean sweep.
3. Outer Banks Scenic Byway – NC
NC Hwy 12 (142 miles) threads barrier islands from Corolla to Ocracoke—lighthouses, dunes, and wild horses galore. Ferries link the gaps; Cape Hatteras shines. Summer’s busy—go early. Best for: coastal wildness.
4. Forest Heritage Scenic Byway – NC
This 76-mile loop near Brevard circles Pisgah National Forest—think Looking Glass Falls and Cradle of Forestry. Fall colors explode; it’s free and twisty. Best for: forest immersion.
Why They Stun
Parkway’s peaks, Cheraw’s range, Outer Banks’ edge, and Forest’s green heart showcase the Carolinas’ diversity.
Drive Them
Start Blue Ridge near Asheville, Cheraw (1 hour from Columbia), Outer Banks at Corolla (2 hours from Norfolk), and Forest in Brevard (45 minutes from Asheville). Gas up—some stretches are remote.
Favorite drive? Tell us below!
