Uncovering America's Most Alluring Spring Views
April 5, 2024
Spring along the Pacific Coast Highway | Image credit: Kan Khampanya, Shutterstock

“March winds and April showers bring forth May flowers.” Following the official first day of spring, the United States transforms into a canvas painted with vibrant colors and breathtaking landscapes. Scenic vistas stretch from coast to coast, offering picturesque views that showcase the beauty of America’s natural wonders. While it would be impossible to highlight every scenic spring view, here are five from around the country that you should consider checking out.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway – North Carolina and Virginia

The Great Craggy Mountains along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, USA with Catawba Rhododendron during a spring season sunset. Photo by Sean Pavone

Winding through the Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina and Virginia, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a breathtaking display of springtime elegance for travelers, adventurists, and motorists. Trees burst into shades of green, and endless wildflower blooms call out to nature enthusiasts, photographers, and tourists to witness the miracle of spring on this iconic scenic byway.

2. Columbia River Gorge – Oregon and Washington

Lupine and balsamroot flowers and the Columbia River at the Tom McCall Preserve in the Rowena hills in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area., Oregon. Photo by Bob Pool

The Columbia River Gorge in Oregon and Washington State provides a glimpse into Mother Nature’s true potential. With its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests, the gorge is adorned with blooming wildflowers come springtime, including vibrant lupines and delicate trilliums. Visitors are encouraged to drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and witness phenomenal sights like Multnomah Falls and the striking vista from Crown Point.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Tennessee and North Carolina

Peach gladiolus in a meadow in Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountains national Park on a foggy day with wonderful clouds playing off the mountains in the distance. Photo by KLiK Photography

Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and North Carolina offers visitors miraculous views of misty peaks and lush valleys. Every spring, the park comes alive as millions of wildflowers adorn the forest floor and numerous migratory birds return to their summer habitats.

4. Pacific Coast Highway, California

Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) at Big Sur in spring time, California. Photo by Daniel X D

California’s iconic Pacific Coast Highway stretches over 200 miles of rugged coastline. Undoubtedly, the Pacific Coast Highway offers unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and all the scenic beauty of the Golden State. In the spring, visitors can spot colorful wildflowers dotted along the coastline. Additionally, migrating whales can often be seen offshore. If you want to see something truly spectacular, try driving through Big Sur and the Monterey Peninsula, where each bend of the road reveals a new jaw-dropping panorama.

5. Texas Hill Country, Texas

Sunrise in the Texas Hill Country, with bluebonnets blooming in the meadows. Photo by Dean Fikar

Deep in the heart of Texas, the Hill Country boasts rolling hills, blooming wildflowers, and dramatic landscapes that come alive in the springtime. Along the Willow City Loop, a scenic drive near Fredericksburg, sightseers are treated to a symphony of bluebonnets, the state flower. Additionally, Texas Hill Country is spattered with charming towns, vineyards, and historic landmarks, providing plentiful opportunities for exploration and leisure amidst the panoramic beauty of the Lone Star State.

This spring, we encourage you to pack your bags and hit the road, embarking on a journey to discover the captivating views that await you across the United States!