• Sheyenne River Valley Scenic Byway (Valley City to Lisbon) emerged in 72nd place.

UT – Winter road trips offer a unique charm that’s hard to match. Despite the cold snap which affected large parts of the country recently, the winter months usually bring scenic routes to life with snow-dusted landscapes, serene coastal drives, and cozy small-town stops that feel like hidden gems. With fewer crowds, travelers can enjoy peaceful adventures, whether winding through national parks, exploring quaint towns, or chasing the crisp horizon of a quiet beach. 
 
Ultimate Toys recently surveyed 3,006 seasoned travelers to establish the best winter road trips in America, based on their experiences. The top 10 were as follows:
 
#1. Great Smoky Mountains Loop (Cherokee to Fontana Village) – North Carolina
This loop takes you through the Smokies, with snow-draped trees, misty valleys, and frozen cascades. Stops include the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and Bryson City, where you can enjoy the scenic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.
 
#2. Hudson Valley Drive (Tarrytown to Hudson) – New York
This route along the Hudson River is magical in winter, with snow-draped historic estates like the Vanderbilt Mansion and quiet riverfront towns like Rhinebeck and Hudson. Warm up at local wineries or enjoy farm-to-table dining along the way.
 
#3. Scenic Byway 12 (Panguitch to Torrey) – Utah
This 122-mile route through Utah’s red rock country is stunning in winter, with Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos blanketed in snow and Capitol Reef’s colorful cliffs glowing in the soft winter light. The drive offers numerous overlooks and opportunities for winter hikes.
 
#4. Lake Tahoe Loop (Incline Village to Zephyr Cove) – Nevada
This loop around Lake Tahoe offers stunning winter views of the snow-covered Sierra Nevada. Stop at Incline Village for lakeside dining, and enjoy winter activities like snowshoeing or sledding in Zephyr Cove. The serene lake reflections and frosty scenery make this a magical drive.
 
#5. Coastal Route 1 (Portland to Camden) – Maine
This drive hugs Maine’s rocky coast, passing through charming towns like Freeport, Rockland, and Camden. Winter highlights include quiet lighthouses, like Portland Head Light, and cozy seafood shacks serving hot chowder.
 
#6. Green Mountain Byway (Waterbury to Cambridge) – Vermont
This drive offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered Green Mountains. Winter highlights include visiting Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory in Waterbury and enjoying Stowe’s vibrant downtown and ski slopes.
 
#7. Richardson Highway (Valdez to Fairbanks) – Alaska
Traveling the Richardson Highway in winter is an unforgettable experience, with glacial valleys, frozen waterfalls, and towering mountain ranges creating a dreamlike setting. The route connects Valdez and Fairbanks, passing through Thompson Pass, known for its incredible snowfall and dramatic vistas. Highlights include Worthington Glacier and Keystone Canyon, where ice climbers scale frozen waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls, making for a unique roadside spectacle.
 
#8. Lakes Region Scenic Drive (Alton to Wolfeboro) – New Hampshire
This 97-mile route around Lake Winnipesaukee offers peaceful views of frozen waters and snow-covered hills. Stop in Meredith for cozy inns and Wolfeboro for quaint shops and winter lake activities.
 
#9. Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway (Phoenicia to Andes) – New York
This drive through the Catskills offers snow-draped forests, quiet villages, and opportunities for winter hiking or skiing. Stops include the charming towns of Phoenicia and Margaretville, known for their cozy cafes and artisan shops.
 
#10. Pacific Coast Scenic Byway (Astoria to Brookings) – Oregon
This 363-mile stretch of the Pacific Coast offers dramatic ocean views, quiet beaches, and iconic landmarks like Heceta Head Lighthouse. Winter storms create stunning waves, while the cool season ensures fewer crowds.

1 North Dakota winter road trip emerged among the best in the country:

#72. Sheyenne River Valley Scenic Byway (Valley City to Lisbon) 
This 63-mile route follows the Sheyenne River through rolling hills and snow-draped forests. Winter highlights include frozen waterfalls and quaint small towns like Fort Ransom, which exudes rustic charm.
 
Infographic showing America’s top 100 winter road trips
 
“Winter road trips bring a special kind of magic, offering snow-dusted landscapes, serene coastal views, and the charm of quieter, hidden-gem destinations. Whether it’s winding through national parks, exploring historic small towns, or taking in breathtaking mountain vistas, these journeys remind us that the colder months are perfect for road trip,” says a spokesperson for Ultimate Toys.

More information on Sheyenne River Valley Scenic Byway:

ND Tourism – Tree-lined, rolling hills are dotted by quaint towns and farmsteads, lending to its Americana charm. In addition to nature and scenery at its best, archaeology, history, culture, and recreation are all found along this byway, North Dakota’s first nationally recognized scenic byway. Forty-one award-winning interpretive panels are spread over the 63-mile drive through the beautiful Sheyenne River Valley. Starting north of Valley City and heading south to Kathryn, Fort Ransom and Lisbon you will learn about the history, culture, wildlife, archaeology and geology of the region. Enjoy the many “mom and pop” shops along the way. 

Points of Interest

Baldhill Dam

Rosebud Visitors Center

Medicine Wheel Park

Clausen Springs

Standing Rock Historic Site

Fort Ransom State Park

Fort Ransom State Historic Site

Begins at Getchell Township Hall on Barnes County Highway 21, along Highways 17 and 19, through Valley City, proceeding on Highway 21 to Ransom County Highway 13 to Lisbon.