The 9 Best Backroads In Virginia For A Long Scenic Drive

There's a reason why so many country songs are devoted to driving the back roads. Here in Virginia, with our gentle rolling hills, blue-tinted mountains, and gorgeous coastline, it's a sentiment we understand quite well. One need look no further than the Blue Ridge Parkway or the iconic Skyline Drive. If you're looking to get away for a bit on a Virginia scenic drive that's a bit lesser-known, here are the best backroads for a long scenic drive. Cue up the music and enjoy the view as you meander along any of the following Virginia scenic drives:

1. Blackwells Hollow Road (Route 810)

Located in Albemarle County, Blackwells Hollow Road meanders through the gorgeous countryside, offering exquisite views of the mountains. It's the ideal Sunday afternoon drive. Just be mindful of bikers, as this is a shared road.

2. Plank Road (Route 692)

Another beautiful drive in Albemarle County, Plank Road leisurely winds through the gentle green landscape. Plank Road is also known as Route 692. During the summer months, keep your eyes out for gorgeous blooms along the side of the road.

3. Balkamore Hill Road in Stanley

Balkamore Hill Road is a country road tucked away in the Shenandoah Valley. On a clear day, you can take this route and enjoy gorgeous pastoral scenes and mountainous landscapes. For a memorable day trip, you can take this road to the nearby Luray Caverns.

4. Route 250

The historic U.S. Route 250 stretches all the way from Virginia to Ohio. One of the most beautiful stretches of the drive makes its way through Highland County, known as Virginia's Little Switzerland.

5. Mint Springs Road in Crozet

Mint Springs Road in Crozet is located near the scenic Mint Spring Valley Park. If you take this drive in the early morning, you might get added benefit of watching the fog lift from the mountain.

5. Route 221: Independence, VA headed South.

U.S. Route 221 begins in Lynchburg and can be followed all the way to Florida. One of the most beautiful stretches starts in Independence and heads south. This drive offers gorgeous views of southwestern Virginia and is especially popular among motorcyclists.

6. Route 33

Route 33 begins in Deltaville, yet the further away from the city you get, the more scenic the drive. This drive isn't necessarily a backroad, yet it's a gorgeous way to experience the Blue Ridge Mountains.

7. Route 11 South in Middletown

A drive along Route 11 South near Middleton is like something from a painting. The gentle rolling mountains combined with fences, wildflowers, and gorgeous farmland make for an unforgettable trip.

8. Snickersville Turnpike

Paradise awaits as you take the scenic Snickersville Turnpike in Loudoun County. This part of the state is renowned for its picturesque farmland and gorgeous natural beauty, and this drive highlights all of it. Along the way, you'll pass gorgeous overlooks, wildflowers, and plenty of places to stop and admire the view. Check out this article for more information on this scenic drive in Virginia.

9. Seaside Road (Route 600)

Last but certainly not least, the Seaside Road provides a beautiful glimpse of the Eastern Shore. Take this road as you enter the Eastern Shore National Wildlife Refuge and continue your exploring of this scenic natural area. The drive may be flat, but the unique surroundings will surely keep you entertained.

Of course, these are only some of the beautiful backroad driving options available in Virginia. Have you traveled any of these? Feel free to share your favorite scenic routes in Virginia with us in the comment section. We would love to hear from you! For more inspiration, be sure to consult Virginia's Scenic Byways.

No matter your route, be sure to check out our ultimate road trip packing list. It's sure to make your planning a breeze so you can enjoy the view once you hit the road!