Enjoy A Scenic Drive Along Missouri’s 6 Most Beautiful Backroads

A long, leisurely drive along one of the most beautiful backroads in Missouri holds so much promise. If we need a bit of alone time - just us and the open road - we won't find a better way than a drive. Or, if we want a little bonding time with the family or a friend, we can get in some quality time during a drive. These scenic drives in Missouri are just a few of many that await.

1. Sugar Camp Scenic Byway

You won't need a whole lot of time to journey along Sugar Camp Scenic Byway, a 28-mile path drenched in beauty. Eight of those miles are paved while the remaining 20 miles will take you along a gravel road. Consider bringing a picnic along for a stop along the drive through Mark Twain National Forest. Plan your drive along Sugar Camp Scenic Byway by reading our previous article.

2. Glade Top Trail

Tallying just 23 miles, Glade Top Trail packs a whole lot of scenic punch into a relatively short space. The beautiful backroad travels through Mark Twain National Forest, making it well-worth a visit any time of the year. Bring a lunch along, perfect for a picnic at one of the scenic overlooks along the way. Get more details on the Glade Top Trail in a previous article.

3. Historic Route 66 Byway

Drive part or all of the Historic Route 66, which streches from St. Louis to Joplin in Missouri. The historic road is brimming with must-visit attractions, starting with the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge in St. Louis. Other popular Historic Route 66 destinations include Meramec Caverns in Sullivan and Boots Motel in Carthage. Take a peek at some of the top stops along Historic Route 66 in Missouri by reading our previous article.

4. Blue Buck Knob Scenic Byway

Short but oh-so-sweet, Blue Buck Knob Scenic Byway travels just 24 miles through the forest. You'll have a front row seat to stunning scenery, including a variety of species of trees - mixed hardwoods and shortleaf pine among them. You'll also have several opportunities to stop, so consider bringing a picnic along. Start planning your journey along Blue Buck Knob Scenic Byway by reading a previous article.

5. Old Trails Road Byway

Old Trails Road Byway travels from Napolean to Lexington (or vice-versa). Drink in jaw-dropping views of the Missouri River as you make your way along the winding road that's particularly breathtaking in the fall. If you have time, consider making it a day trip to Lexington. Learn more on the official website of Visit Lexington, Missouri.

6. Stars & Stripes Byway

Technically, you could drive or hike the Stars & Stripes Scenic Byway, which clocks in at just 5.5 miles. However, you'll probably want to drive, so you have plenty of time to stop at the must-visit destinations along the way, including the Stars & Stripes Museum. Get more information about the Stars & Stripes Museum on its official website.

What do you think are the most beautiful backroads in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! For more gorgeous views, lace up your hiking shoes and take of the many easy hiking trails in Missouri.