Is there anything better than a scenic drive in Virginia? We think not! There are countless back roads and winding trails that will showcase all the beauty the Old Dominion has to offer. Even our interstates have some beautiful views. One of those routes travels north and south – practically all the way through the state! Like any route, Interstate 81 does have its share of traffic. However, the surrounding scenery really is beautiful. Take a look at the photos below to catch a glimpse of the gorgeous Route 81 in Virginia.

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Do you agree that an Interstate 81 scenic drive can be a lovely way to travel? What are your favorite parts of Route 81 in Virginia? Are there other routes, like Route 11, that you prefer driving? Share your thoughts with us in the comments – we’d love to hear from you! With so many scenic byways and highways in Virginia, we recommend renting an RV from RVShare and planning a fun road trip in Virginia.

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More Virginia Scenic Drives

What are some scenic drives in Virginia?

Virginia has incredible scenic roads that will wow you with awe-inspiring views. Whether you are looking to bypass busy freeways, or simply enjoy a Sunday afternoon cruise, these scenic drives in Virginia are really something special:

  • Blue Ridge Parkway: This iconic drive through the Appalachian mountains has been named "America's Favorite Drive." You'll understand as you wind in and around the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains from Virginia all the way to North Carolina. If you plan your drive during the winter months, you'll be able to catch the dusky blue haze that gives this mountain range its name.
  • Skyline Drive: Another incredibly scenic drive in the Blue Ridge Mountains is the 105-mile Skyline Drive. You'll be delighted by the views of the enchanting Shenandoah National Park in one of the most idyllic drives in the country. If you drive the entire route it will take about three hours to complete, but you'll most likely want to stop at a few scenic overlooks or roadside hikes along the way.
  • Big Walker Mountain National Forest Scenic Byway: This section of Route 52 near Wytheville, Virginia is just 16 miles long, (heck the name is practically longer than the drive) but you will be treated to amazing views the entire way. The mountain and the drive are named after Dr. Thomas Walker, who passed through in 1749 looking for a way into Kentucky. Along the drive, keep an eye out for the 100-foot lookout tower that you can climb to see for miles around in every direction.

Sometimes, a scenic drive isn't a national or state-designated highway - it can be a lovely country backroad. Here are a few scenic country roads to explore in Virginia that we think you'll enjoy.