There are many beautiful Alabama scenic drives. Travelers are blessed with some of the most amazing views in the nation. There are so many scenic places in Alabama that you’ll be enthralled with the landscape no matter what season you are traveling in. If you feel like taking an afternoon trip, here are 10 of the best scenic drives in Alabama that we think you should definitely check out.

1. Natchez Trace Parkway
Natchez Trace Parkway, Natchez, Mississippi, USA
flickr/Jamie
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile drive that starts in Mississippi and winds up through Alabama and into Tennessee. It offers beautiful scenery and over 10,000 years of history. The pathway follows "Old Natchez Trace," an ancient pathway that was used by Native Americans and European settlers. Find out more information about the Natchez Trace Parkway on the National Park Service website.

Get a closer look at the Natchez Trace Parkway:

2. Lookout Mountain Parkway
Lookout Mountain Parkway, Lookout Mountain Pkwy, Fort Payne, AL, USA
facebook/Mountain Laurel Inn Bed and Breakfast
The Lookout Mountain Parkway stretches across Lookout Mountain from Chattanooga, Tennessee all the way to Gadsden Alabama. It spans three states in its 93 miles. Travelers will come across waterfalls, canyons, unique towns, and wonderful state parks. This is easily one of the best scenic drives in Alabama!
3. Selma to Montgomery March Byway
Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail, 7318 US-80, Hayneville, AL 36040, USA
flickr/Wayne Taylor
The Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail is 54 miles long and celebrates the three 1965 civil rights marches that occurred along the path. The marches were a major factor in that year's passing of the Voting Rights Act which allowed African Americans the right to vote. There are many museums along the path, so it's not only a beautiful drive, but a great way to experience the history of the area. The National Park Service website has more information about some of the stops along this historic route.
4. Alabama's Coastal Connection Scenic Byway
Alabama's Coastal Connection, Orange Beach, AL, USA
flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
If you're looking for scenic Gulf Coast views, it doesn't get any better than Alabama's Coastal Connection Scenic Byway. With beautiful beaches, charming downtown areas, wildlife preserves, and historic sites, this road has it all. And don't even get us started on the amazing seafood! Just check out all these incredible places to stop!

Check out the beautiful sights along this byway:

5. Barbour County Governors' Trail
Barbour County, AL, USA
wikimedia commons
The Barbour County Governors' Trail recognizes the eight former governors from Barbour County. This is not only one of the best scenic drives in Alabama, but it offers many historic and recreational opportunities. The 36-mile trail begins in Clio and ends at Shorter Mansion in Eufaula. This is a beautiful byway!

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6. Talladega Scenic Drive
Alabama 281, AL-281, Alabama, USA
flickr/J. Stephen Conn
The Talladega Scenic Drive (officially Alabama State Route 281) provides the access route to Cheaha State Park. Cheaha Mountain, located within the park, is 2,407 feet high and Alabama's highest point. The 26-mile drive will show you a view of Alabama you don't normally get to see!

Follow along on a motorcycle ride on the Talladega Scenic Drive:

7. Cheaha State Park Road
Cheaha State Park, 19644 AL-281, Delta, AL 36258, USA
flickr/l0fty
This road is located within Cheaha State Park's 2,799 acres. No matter what time of year you go, it's beautiful, but autumn is the most popular season. It's one of the best places to see fall foliage in Alabama. It was Alabama's first official state park and is still one of the best. Since the road is right inside the park, you can spend an entire weekend there enjoying all the recreational activities.
8. Huntsville Mountaintop Road
Madison County Nature Trail Lake, Alabama 35802, USA
flickr/Steve Driskell
This mountaintop road in Huntsville is quiet and peaceful. Located within the Madison County Nature Trail area, it's a great place to observe wildlife. Get out and walk around the lake: It's only a 1.5-mile trail, and it's absolutely stunning. This is one of the most scenic places in Alabama!
9. Black Warrior River Scenic Byway
Black Warrior River, Alabama, USA
wikipedia
The Black Warrior River Scenic Byway is about 12 miles long. Located in Tuscaloosa and Northport, the route includes three bridges. You'll get breathtaking views of the Black Warrior River as it flows towards the Tombigbee River. Did you know "black warrior" is a translation of the Choctaw word "Tuscaloosa?"
10. The Oak Alley
Spring Hill College Road, Spring Hill College Rd, Mobile, AL 36608, USA
flickr/faungg's photos
Oak Alley is a short road winding down from Spring Hill College off of Shell Road. It's absolutely gorgeous and one of the most beautiful places in Alabama.

Have you driven any of these Alabama byways? Can you think of more nominees for “best scenic drives in Alabama” that you want to suggest? Share your experiences and ideas in the comments! I think it’s time to pack up the car for a road trip to Alabama!

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More to Explore

Scenic Places In Alabama

Lisa Sammons | September 01, 2021

What are some natural wonders in Alabama?

Natural wonders in Alabama include:

  • Cathedral Caverns

We have so many incredible natural wonders in Alabama. This is a really stunning state that truly has everything. Beaches, mountains, caves, waterfalls: the Cotton State has it all. The Cathedral Caverns are wonderful and if you've never been, you should definitely check them out. There are plenty of other natural wonders in Alabama worthy of a pilgrimage!

What are some scenic places in Alabama?

A scenic place in Alabama is Cheaha Mountain.

Cheaha Mountain is the highest point in Alabama and gives you a bird's eye view of the state! You can see for so far up there. There are a ton of gorgeous places in Alabama, though. Perry Lakes Park has beautiful lakes that will make you feel like you stepped back in time. Check out some more beautiful places in the Cotton State.

What are great places to view fall foliage in Alabama?

Great places to view fall foliage in Alabama include:

  • Oak Mountain State Park
  • Palisades Park

We've got a whole road trip planned out for you! Fall is a beautiful time in Alabama, and with all our state parks and mountains, the changing leaves make for a kaleidoscope of colors at places like Oak Mountain State Park and Palisades Park.

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