Take These 13 Country Roads In Ohio For A Memorable Scenic Drive
When you need to get away from it all, a peaceful countryside or coastal drive does just the trick. Thankfully, Ohio is full of several beautiful country, coastal and riverside roads just waiting for your vehicle to travel. The most magnificent scenic country roads in Ohio can be found throughout every region of this vast state, and they’re an absolute treat no matter the season. Immerse yourself in the majesty of stunning windshield views along these scenic routes.
1. The Ohio Amish Country Byway (the SR 557/SR 643/SR 93 trip)
For a leisurely drive back to a simpler time in life, explore the rolling hills of Ohio's Amish Country in Holmes County. The picture above was taken near Charm. With 160 total miles set out along the Amish Country Byway, visitors are truly in for a treat.
2. The Ohio River Scenic Byway (the U.S. Hwy 50/U.S. Hwy 52/SR 7/SR 338/SR 124/ U.S. Hwy 7 trip)
Travel along the Ohio River and visit several of Ohio's charming small towns. Pictured is the view of the river from Gallipolis' Mound Ceremony. Gallipolis is one of the many small towns along the river you will encounter on this drive, although this is one of the longest scenic routes you can take on this list. The Ohio River Scenic Byway spans 943 miles and also reaches into Illinois and Indiana.
3. The Covered Bridges Byway (the Ashtabula County covered bridge tour)
Drive through America's shortest and longest covered bridge along this scenic route, which features 18 covered bridges in Ashtabula County. Begin your drive at the Netcher Road bridge near Jefferson and continue to the Smolen-Gulf Bridge (pictured) near the Ashtabula River. Driving through these covered bridges is particularly rewarding in the fall!
4. The National Forest Covered Bridge Scenic Byway (the SR 26 from Marietta to Woodsfield trip)
For a weekend trip, visit Lake Erie and the historic lighthouses that dot the shore. Begin east of Cleveland at the Conneaut West Breakwater Lighthouse. With 293 total miles for you to enjoy, the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail is a fan favorite.
This country road in Adams County is a favorite scenic drive for locals. Enjoy views of Scioto Brush Creek and the verdant forests of this untamed region. Since its establishment in 1935, this spot has been particularly cherished as fall foliage lights up the landscape.
The fall foliage along this winding, picturesque road in Lake County is unbelievably beautiful during the autumn season. You'll find yourself overlooking the Michael J Kirwan Reservoir and West Branch State Park.
Not far from Churchtown and SR 676, you'll find this off-the-beaten-path route that will give you a truly classic country road experience. Short, sweet, and scenic, this spot is a treat if you're craving the sight of wide, open skies.
The photographer captured a stunning October sunrise on this magical road within the Hocking Hills. Truly, any route through the Hocking Hills region is sure to be exquisite, but this easy drive isn't too winding and is perfect for casual cruising.
This steep and scenic road in Pike County offers another off-the-beaten-path, classic country road experience. At the end of this route is White Oak Cemetery, a picturesque little plot amidst the splendor of this country drive.
This secluded, scenic road in Williams County also features absolutely stunning fall foliage. This route overlooks portions of the St. Joseph River, a tributary of the mighty Maumee River.
Within Warren Township, this gem of a route features beautiful views of some of the most unexpectedly stunning countryside. If you love farmland, you'll love the rolling majesty of this stretch of landscape.
Within the Summit Metro Parks, you'll find some of the most serene, stunning fall foliage of the season. During your visit to this area, be sure to check out Sand Run Metro Park, where nature and hiking are abundant.
Have you traveled along any of these scenic country roads in Ohio before? What is your favorite road to travel in Ohio for a scenic, leisurely drive? Share your photos and experiences with us in the comments below!
Address: Amish Country Byway, Millersburg, OH, USA
Address: Ohio River Scenic Byway, Gallipolis, OH, USA
Address: 25 W Jefferson St, Jefferson, OH 44047, USA
Address: 707 Greene St, Marietta, OH 45750, USA
Address: OH-531, Ashtabula, OH, USA
Address: OH-348, Otway, OH, USA
Address: Ravenna Rd, Newton Falls, OH 44444, USA
Address: Pottmeyer Rd, Ohio 45729, USA
Address: Ilesboro Rd, Logan, OH 43138, USA
Address: White Oak Hill Rd, Peebles, OH, USA
Address: Co Rd 1625, Alvordton, OH 43501, USA
Address: Brush Rd, Marietta, OH 45750, USA
Address: Sand Run Rd, Akron, OH, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Scenic Country Roads In Ohio
August 02, 2020
Nikki Rhoades
What are the best day trips in Ohio?
There’s so much to do in Ohio! In addition to scenic drives, you can day trip to locations like scenic small towns, Cedar Point, COSI, and the Cleveland Botanical Garden.
What are the best outdoor activities in Ohio?
During your scenic Ohio drives, you’ll find that nature is calling your name. The best and most daring way to experience the splendor of the local landscape is to embark on a zipline adventure. You can also hike amidst the tree canopy if a zipline isn’t quite enough to fuel your hunger for adventure!
What are the most unique places to spend the night in Ohio?
During your travels, you’ll need a place to stay. Camp in a yurt at The Wilds, or you can go glamping in a treehouse. Not quite fairy tale enough for you? Road trip to a medieval cottage community for more fun.
Address: Amish Country Byway, Millersburg, OH, USA
Address: Ohio River Scenic Byway, Gallipolis, OH, USA
Address: 25 W Jefferson St, Jefferson, OH 44047, USA
April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
