8 Spring Scenic Drives for Incredible Wildlife Viewing

Spring is a time of blooming wildflowers, chirping birds, and wildlife coming out of hibernation. As the days get longer and warmer nature enthusiasts venture outdoors to explore the beauty of the season and maybe spot some wildlife along the way. Make the most out of spring with a scenic drive for some up close encounters with nature.

The excitement of spotting wildlife on scenic drives can make for a truly unforgettable experience. It is important to remember to give these animals space and observe them from a safe distance. So pack some snacks, grab your camera, and hit the road for a springtime adventure like no other.

1. Trail Ridge Road, Colorado

Trail Ridge Road is known for its breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. The road reaches an elevation of 12,183 feet, making it the highest continuous paved road in the United States. The drive ends at the highest point of the Beartooth Highway, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

This scenic drive features wildlife in their natural habitat and is a must-see for nature enthusiasts. As visitors drive along this scenic route, they have the opportunity to spot a variety of animals, such as elk, bighorn sheep, mule deer, marmot, and even moose. The unique drive offers a chance to experience the beauty of the area and observe wildlife up close.

2. Overseas Highway, Florida

The Overseas Highway is a popular destination for snorkeling, fishing, and enjoying the laid-back island atmosphere. With palm trees swaying in the ocean breeze and the warm sun shining down, this drive is a tropical paradise waiting to be explored. Pack a camera to capture the stunning views and memories of your trip.

This scenic drive through the Florida Keys offers stunning views of crystal-clear turquoise waters and picturesque islands. Travelers can spot colorful marine life, such as tropical fish, manatees, sea turtles, and dolphins. Other wildlife known to inhabit the area includes pelicans, ospreys, and various species of birds.

3. Wildlife Loop Road, South Dakota

The Wildlife Loop Road is an 18-mile loop through Custer State Park in South Dakota. The scenic drive passes by beautiful prairies, rolling hills, and majestic forests, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Along with wildlife, the park is also home to a large population of burros, which are known to roam freely and interact with cars passing by.

This stunning drive offers visitors the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife in its natural habitat. Some of the animals that can be spotted along the Wildlife Loop Road include prairie dogs, bison, elk, pronghorn, and deer. It's also a great place to spot a variety of species of birds, including raptors and waterfowl.

4. Pacific Coast Highway, California

The Pacific Coast Highway is a scenic drive with stunning coastal views. The highway stretches for over 600 miles along the California coast. Travelers can enjoy breathtaking ocean vistas, rocky cliffs, and beautiful sandy beaches on this drive. Along the route, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and explore charming seaside towns, sample fresh seafood, and relax.

The diverse ecosystem along the Pacific Coast Highway makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. This area is home to wildlife such as sea lions, otters, dolphins, and whales. Visitors may be able to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures frolicking in the waves or basking in the sun along the shoreline.

5. Denali Park Road, Alaska

Witness the vast wilderness of Alaska with a drive through Denali National Park. This scenic route stretches for 92 miles and offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests. The road is dotted with scenic overlooks and hiking trails, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

Keep an eye out for wildlife such as grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and wolves roaming freely in their natural habitat. As you explore, you may even catch a glimpse of the elusive bald eagle soaring overhead. Dall sheep can also be spotted clinging to the cliffs along the road, showcasing their impressive agility.

6. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

This scenic drive through Glacier National Park offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests. Along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, visitors can witness the powerful waterfalls cascading down the rugged terrain and the vibrant wildflowers blooming along the roadside. The road is typically open from late June to mid-October, weather permitting.

This road trip offers a fantastic opportunity for wildlife spotting, with chances to see mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even the occasional black bear. You may also catch glimpses of smaller animals like marmots, pikas, and various bird species. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles soaring high above and deer grazing in the meadows.

7. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia

The Blue Ridge Parkway is known for its stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and lush forests. The winding road stretches for 469 miles, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Along the way, visitors can enjoy numerous overlooks, hiking trails, and picnic areas.

Let your eyes feast on the spectacular views of blooming wildflowers. Keep an eye out for black bears, wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, and migrating birds. You might also see elusive red foxes darting through the trees or hear the distinctive call of a barred owl echoing through the forest. Don't forget to check out the visitor centers along the way for educational exhibits on local wildlife.

8. Olympic Peninsula Loop, Washington

Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the mountains or a colorful sunset over the ocean during your visit to this stunning destination. Drive through temperate rainforests and towering old-growth forests in the Pacific Northwest. Explore the rugged coastal beaches and discover hidden sea caves and tide pools filled with unique marine life.

The diverse ecosystems of the Olympic Peninsula offer a unique opportunity to witness a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitats. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, Roosevelt elk, and otters. You may even spot a whale breaching in the distance. Don't forget to bring your binoculars and camera to capture these unforgettable moments.

Remember to respect the animals and their environment to ensure their safety and well-being. Keep your safety in mind while you maintain a safe distance from all wildlife. Your car can be a refuge point if you need to retreat quickly. Find out how myAutoloan can help you finance a reliable vehicle for your next adventure.