December turns America’s highways into something magical. Winter brings fresh snow to mountain passes, emptier roads through national parks, and coastal routes that suddenly feel wild and dramatic with winter storms rolling in.
The best December road trips mix famous scenic byways like California’s Pacific Coast Highway and Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway with secret routes—think Parke County’s covered bridges in Indiana or Pennsylvania’s Route 209 through the Poconos.
Honestly, December road trips have been some of my favorites. You dodge the big crowds, and the winter scenery just shows off in ways you won’t see any other time of year. Places like Yosemite Valley, Arches National Park, and Vermont’s Route 100 all seem to put on a whole new face under snow and that low winter light.
Planning makes a bigger difference in December, though. Weather can flip fast, and some routes need tire chains or can close unexpectedly. But if you prep well and pick the right road, you’ll get adventures way more memorable than anything you’ll find in the summer rush.
Key Takeaways
- December road trips mean quieter scenic routes through national parks, mountain passes, and coastal highways all over the U.S.
- Hidden drives like Indiana’s covered bridge loop and Pennsylvania’s Route 209 bring beautiful winter views—minus the tourist crowds.
- Winter driving needs extra prep: tire chains, emergency gear, and always check road conditions before you go.
Best Scenic December Road Trips
December turns America’s highways into winter showcases. You’ll see everything from snow-dusted mountain passes to sunlit coastal roads. The best drives mix dramatic scenery with easy access, whether you’re chasing alpine adventures or just craving a warm beach.
Iconic Winter Drives Across the USA
Arches National Park Road in Utah runs 36 miles of pure, otherworldly beauty. When snow falls, those red rocks look almost unreal. The main road stays plowed, so it’s usually accessible. I always stop at the Windows Section for a quick walk beneath those massive arches.
Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park stretches 105 miles along the Blue Ridge Mountains. The slow speed limit gives you time to spot foxes or maybe a bobcat at one of the overlooks. Winter brings icy waterfalls to the park’s endless trails.
Lakes to Locks Passage in New York covers 60 miles between Waterford and Whitehall. You’ll pass frozen lakes—great for ice fishing—and get views of the Hudson River. Winter bird watching is surprisingly good here since it’s on the Atlantic Flyway.
Coastal Escapes and Sunny Routes
Florida’s coast calls if you want to skip snow altogether. The drive south links sunny cities and sandy beaches, and you can leave your winter jacket at home.
Highway 57 in Door County, Wisconsin gives the Midwest its own version of a coastal winter drive. The 85-mile route from Green Bay to Gills Rock hugs Lake Michigan and rolls through historic towns. I like stopping at Whitefish Dunes State Park for the tallest dunes, or Cave Point County Park for those wild ice formations on the cliffs.
The Lake Tahoe Loop circles 72 miles around the lake—one of North America’s deepest. The Nevada side is a National Scenic Byway. Sand Harbor State Park is a spot to dip your toes (if you dare) in water that never freezes, and the gondola at Heavenly Ski Resort gives you a view you won’t forget.
Mountain Retreats and Alpine Pathways
Million Dollar Highway in Colorado runs 25 miles between Ouray and Silverton, cutting through the San Juan Mountains. The road twists and climbs, with wild views over Bear Creek Falls and Red Mountain. Snow chains? Yeah, you’ll want them for this one.
Yosemite Valley Loop takes you 45 miles through pure winter magic. Snow covers the granite giants and parts of Yosemite Falls freeze into shimmering ice. Badger Pass Ski Area opens for downhill and cross-country skiing from mid-December, so you can mix your drive with some winter sports and cozy cabin stays.
Vermont Route 100 runs 146 miles through classic villages and the Mad River Valley. It’s ski country up here, but even if you don’t ski, the towns feel extra warm and welcoming. I always swing by the Vermont Country Store in Weston for a snack break.
Lesser Known and Hidden Gem Routes
You don’t have to stick to the big-name roads in December. All over the country, you’ll find peaceful drives through small towns, quiet parks, and rural spots that most people just skip.
Underrated Small-Town Journeys
Vermont’s Mad River Valley is one of those places I keep coming back to. It’s quiet, tucked off Route 100, and full of villages like Warren and Waitsfield. There are boutique hotels scattered around, and it’s easy to spend a night or two exploring local farms and artisan shops.
Indiana’s Parke County loop takes you over 18 covered bridges in just 35 miles of peaceful country roads. Start in Rockville, and you’ll pass through tiny towns that barely see tourists in December. The Marshall Bridge is just 56 feet long, but the Crooks Bridge dates back to 1856. I always stop at The Ranch Rockville for something warm to drink between bridges.
Utah’s Highway 12 winds through quiet desert landscapes with hardly any traffic in winter. This road links up small towns like Boulder and Torrey, and you can sneak into less-crowded corners of Capitol Reef National Park.
Secluded National and State Parks
Popular parks turn into peaceful retreats in December. Arches National Park, for example, gets way fewer visitors in winter. The 36-mile scenic drive usually stays open, and snow on the red rocks makes for unreal photos. Short hikes to North Window or Double Arch feel almost private.
Great Basin National Park in Nevada is a hidden gem, even in summer, but winter makes it feel like your own private wilderness. Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive gives you views of ancient bristlecone pines and snowy peaks when it’s open. I’ve run into more deer than people here in December.
Shenandoah’s Skyline Drive runs 105 miles with 75 overlooks. In winter, you’ll have the road mostly to yourself. The park’s 500 miles of trails are perfect for snowshoeing if you get the right conditions.
Charming Covered Bridges and Rural Roads
Parke County calls itself the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World,” and honestly, it’s hard to argue. The Bridgeton Road Loop shows off several bridges in their winter best. I’ve seen horse and buggy tracks in the snow near Portland Mills Bridge—one of the few white-painted bridges around. The Jackson Bridge has quirky dormer windows, and the Narrows Bridge glows red against the white snow.
The Neet Bridge has a little picnic spot, good for a quick winter break. Bridgeton’s old mill still runs, right next to Indiana’s most photographed covered bridge and waterfall. December means you’ll have the place to yourself, unlike the October festival when crowds take over.
The Mad River Valley’s backroads connect covered bridges like Warren and Waitsfield. You’ll pass working farms and maple sugar houses that welcome visitors, even in the cold.
Northeast and New England Winter Explorations
December turns the Northeast into a winter postcard, with scenic byways winding through snowy mountains and historic valleys. I’ve found that drives like Vermont’s Route 100 and New York’s Hudson Valley offer quiet roads and jaw-dropping views—no crowds required.
Vermont’s Scenic Route 100
Route 100 slices north-south through Vermont’s Green Mountains for about 200 miles. In December, you’ll see red barns pop against the snow, and the road winds through tiny villages and working farms. The route links several ski towns, but honestly, just driving it is half the fun.
Start near Wilmington in the south and head north. The road hugs valleys, crosses little passes, and rolls through towns like Ludlow, Warren, and Waterbury. Each place has its own restaurants and shops—most stay open all winter.
Keep an eye out for moose or deer, especially early or late in the day. Some stretches get twisty, and cell service can be spotty, so check weather and road updates before you set out.
Stowe and the Mad River Valley
Stowe sits at the foot of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest peak. The Mountain Road climbs up from the village with views of snowy slopes. Downtown Stowe has old brick buildings and plenty of cozy spots for hot chocolate.
Head south and you’ll hit the Mad River Valley, home to Warren and Waitsfield. It feels quieter than Stowe but just as scenic. I always swing by the Warren Covered Bridge—built in 1880. Its red paint against the snow is classic Vermont.
Route 100 links these spots in about half an hour. Pull over for photos of farms and mountains, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a maple syrup producer giving winter tours.
New York and Hudson Valley Adventures
The Hudson Valley stretches north from New York City along the river. Route 9W on the west side gives you water views and glimpses of the Catskill Mountains. In December, the Palisades Interstate Parkway is a less-busy alternative with fewer businesses along the way.
Historic estates like Kykuit and Montgomery Place open on weekends through winter. Cold Spring and Beacon invite you to stroll their main streets, ducking into antique shops and cafes. Weekdays are the best for quiet drives, but weekends get lively with city folks escaping for the day.
The Taconic State Parkway winds through woods and over old stone bridges from the 1930s. No commercial trucks allowed, so it stays peaceful. You’ll see snow-topped stone walls lining the road in lots of spots.
Southern and Coastal Holiday Drives
December brings gentle weather to southern coasts and a festive feel to scenic byways down here. These drives mix warm temps, holiday lights, and way fewer crowds than up north.
Florida Keys: Key Largo to Key West
The Overseas Highway runs 113 miles from Key Largo to Key West, hopping island to island over turquoise water. December means mid-70s and windows down—honestly, it’s hard not to smile the whole way. There’s something extra fun about palm trees wrapped in lights and boat parades in Key West.
The drive takes about three and a half hours, but you’ll want to stop. Bahia Honda State Park has white sand and clear water. Marathon’s got the Turtle Hospital and fresh seafood. At Mile Marker 0 in Key West, you’ll find Victorian houses decked out for Christmas, the southernmost point marker, and sunset parties at Mallory Square.
Texas Hill Country Festive Routes
Texas Hill Country brings German holiday traditions, rolling hills, and charming small towns. The drive connecting Fredericksburg, Johnson City, and Wimberley runs about 90 miles through ranch land and limestone cliffs.
Fredericksburg lights up Main Street with thousands of twinkling lights. Christmas markets and German treats make it feel extra cozy. Johnson City, home of President Lyndon B. Johnson, hosts the Festival of Lights all over town and at Pedernales Falls State Park.
Wimberley sits along Cypress Creek, and the town square fills up with local art and holiday events all December. Ranch Road 12 between Wimberley and San Marcos gives you big views of the Blanco River valley.
Lake Michigan’s Shoreline Journey
Wisconsin’s Highway 57 hugs Lake Michigan’s west shore for 85 miles from Green Bay to Gills Rock. Door County feels peaceful in winter, with tiny harbor towns and lighthouse views.
Ice takes over the shoreline at Cave Point County Park, and Whitefish Dunes State Park shows off the state’s tallest dunes—pretty wild against the frozen lake. The drive takes about two hours, winding through old fishing villages like Fish Creek and Ephraim.
Newport State Park near Gills Rock has 26 miles of ski trails and a Dark Sky designation. December nights get so clear you can see stars you never knew existed.
Mountain Adventures and National Park Drives
December rolls in and suddenly, mountain roads and national parks become magical winter wonderlands. You’ll see snow-dusted peaks, frozen waterfalls, and quiet trails—totally different vibes from those packed summer days.
Smoky Mountains Winter Experience
The Smoky Mountains make winter road trips surprisingly easy. Take Newfound Gap Road; it’s open all year and connects Tennessee to North Carolina, right through the park’s heart.
The drive climbs up to 5,046 feet over 31 miles. You get those epic views of snowy peaks that just don’t look the same any other time.
With December’s lighter crowds, you might actually snag a parking spot at the best overlooks. Chains aren’t usually needed, but watch out for black ice in shady spots.
I always set out early, while frost still sparkles on the trees. There’s something about that quiet morning air.
Best stops along the way:
- Clingmans Dome Road (the upper section closes, but the lower lot stays open)
- Morton Overlook—catch the sunrise if you can
- Chimney Tops Trail parking area
Wildlife spotting gets better in winter. Deer and elk head down to lower elevations, so you’re more likely to see them from the car.
Colorado Rockies: Breckenridge and Ouray
If you’re craving drama, the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton is unforgettable. It’s just 25 miles, but with steep cliffs and sharp turns, it feels like an adventure every mile.
This road can close during big snowstorms, so I always check the latest updates before heading out.
Breckenridge is a bit more mellow, with well-kept roads from Denver. The 90-mile trip along I-70 and Highway 9 usually takes about two hours.
The town sits at 9,600 feet, surrounded by peaks soaring over 14,000 feet. In Ouray, you might spot ice climbers scaling frozen waterfalls right from the road.
Town crews keep Ouray’s streets in good shape, but you’ll need chains or four-wheel drive for the Million Dollar Highway. Red Mountain Pass gets dumped with snow, creating postcard-worthy scenes.
Yosemite and Arches National Park Wonders
Yosemite Valley stays open all winter. December is honestly the best time to see the park without the crowds. I like taking Highway 140 through El Portal—it’s usually accessible, even when other routes close.
The valley loop gives you those classic views: Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls, sometimes frozen.
Arches National Park under snow is a whole new world. Red sandstone capped in white? It’s wild. The scenic drive is 36 miles round trip, and rangers plow after storms.
The Windows Section turns especially beautiful in winter—don’t skip it.
Winter access notes:
- Yosemite posts chain requirements when needed
- Arches plows main roads, but trails get icy
- Lake Tahoe loop (72 miles) can be added to either park for a longer adventure
Both parks stay relatively mild in December. Daytime temps often hover above freezing, so hiking’s still on the table if you’ve got the right gear.
Festive Stops, Packing Tips, and Essential Gear
A December road trip needs a bit more planning—think holiday fun and winter safety. The right stops and smart packing can turn a regular drive into something memorable.
Must-See Christmas Attractions
Put Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland in Frankenmuth, Michigan on your list. It’s the world’s biggest Christmas store, open all year, but December is when it really goes all out.
The place covers over seven acres with 50,000+ holiday items. It’s almost overwhelming in the best way.
Christmas markets bring the season to life. Chicago’s Christkindlmarket has German wooden stalls, mulled wine, and hand-carved ornaments. Milwaukee and Cincinnati have their own takes if you’re nearby.
Historic towns really nail the Christmas spirit. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, glow with millions of lights. Kennebunkport, Maine puts on its Christmas Prelude festival, while Woodstock, Vermont just feels like a snow globe.
National parks in winter? Totally different vibe. Rocky Mountain and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks are quiet, with frozen lakes and snowy trails.
Packing and Car Prep for Winter Drives
Winter driving means you need specific gear. I always toss an ice scraper, jumper cables, and snow chains in the trunk.
Some mountain passes require chains, and they can save you from a lot of headaches.
Build an emergency kit with warm blankets, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget snacks—granola bars and nuts work great. I keep a gallon of water in the car, even if it freezes.
Dress in layers. Pack thermal base layers, a waterproof jacket, insulated gloves, and a warm hat. Waterproof boots with good grip are a must for icy parking lots.
Give your car a once-over before leaving. Check antifreeze, test your battery, and fill up with winter windshield washer fluid.
I always keep my gas tank at least half full. It helps prevent fuel line freeze-ups and gives you peace of mind if you get stuck or need to keep the heater running.
Cozy and Unique Accommodation Picks
Mountain cabins are hard to beat for privacy and views. The Smokies and Colorado Rockies have plenty of cabins with fireplaces and hot tubs. You can cook your own meals and enjoy the peace.
Historic inns in New England ooze charm and put you close to downtown holiday events. Places like the Woodstock Inn in Vermont or coastal spots in Kennebunkport make it easy to walk everywhere.
If you want more action, ski lodges deliver. Many have ski-in/ski-out access, plus restaurants and evening fun.
Downtown boutique hotels near Christmas markets are a smart move. You can walk to everything and skip the hassle of parking at night.
Book early for December—popular spots fill up quickly, especially around weekends and right before Christmas.
Handy Gifts and Stocking Stuffers for the Road
Stocking stuffers make long drives more fun. Travel-sized games, card decks, or little puzzles keep everyone entertained.
I lean toward practical gifts. A good travel mug keeps coffee or cocoa hot for hours. Portable phone chargers are lifesavers when you’re running GPS all day.
Local souvenirs become instant memories—grab ornaments at Christmas markets, honey from small towns, or postcards from national parks.
Snack bags for each person cut down on stops and squabbles. I fill them with a mix of sweet and salty stuff like trail mix, chocolate, and crackers.
Comfort counts. Neck pillows, cozy socks, and small blankets make a huge difference. I always pack hand warmers for those quick, chilly stops at scenic overlooks.
Frequently Asked Questions
December road trips really do have something for everyone. Whether you want snowy national parks or sunny coastlines, you can plan anything from a weekend dash to a cross-country adventure. Here are some answers to help you map out your winter escape.
For dramatic winter scenery, drive the Arches National Park Road in Utah. It’s a 36-mile round trip with red rocks dusted in snow, and you’ll see icons like Delicate Arch and the Windows Section.
The Million Dollar Highway in Colorado stuns with mountain views over 25 miles between Ouray and Silverton. You’ll probably need snow chains, but the sights—Bear Creek Falls, Red Mountain—are worth it.
Love lakes? The Lake Tahoe Loop circles 72 miles around deep blue water, with snow-capped Sierra peaks reflected all around. The Nevada side is a National Scenic Byway.
Yosemite Valley Loop in California stays open and gives you snowy granite cliffs and frozen waterfalls—pure winter magic.
Try the Covered Bridge Circuit through Parke County, Indiana. It’s a 33-mile loop linking Rockville, Bridgeton, Rosedale, and Mecca, passing 31 historic covered bridges.
Route 209 in Pennsylvania winds 70 miles through the Pocono Mountains from Milford to Jim Thorpe. You’ll follow the Delaware River, with chances to cross-country ski in Bushkill.
Highway 57 in Door County North, Wisconsin, runs 85 miles from Green Bay to Gills Rock. Think coastal towns, Lake Michigan views, and the state’s tallest dunes at Whitefish Dunes State Park.
The High Road to Taos Scenic Byway in New Mexico covers 49 miles through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Snow-dusted junipers and piñon pines line the way, and you can stop at old missions and Cordova, a wood-carving village.
A weeklong trip from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park gives you time to really explore. Spend two or three days hiking to viewpoints and visiting Badger Pass Ski Area, open mid-December through early April.
Lake Tahoe is about 200 miles away and makes a great base. Drive the 72-mile loop, check out Sand Harbor State Park, and take the gondola up to Heavenly for those panoramic views.
Or, take a coastal route down Highway 1. You’ll hit beaches and charming towns like Big Sur and Santa Barbara, and maybe keep going to San Diego if you’re feeling ambitious.
Utah’s national parks are doable within three days of driving. Arches National Park’s 36-mile scenic drive is unreal under snow and soft winter light.
If you’re up for flying, the Seward Highway in Alaska starts from Anchorage. The 50-mile drive to Portage runs through Chugach National Forest, with snowcapped peaks and wildlife at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway is within two or three days’ reach. That 25-mile stretch between Ouray and Silverton is part of the San Juan Skyway and delivers jaw-dropping mountain scenes.
New Mexico’s High Road to Taos is also reachable in two days. The drive is short, but you’ll get access to historic pueblos and high desert landscapes.
I’d spend the first three days getting to Yosemite and exploring the valley. Winter activities like skiing at Badger Pass and checking out frozen waterfalls are musts.
Next, head to Lake Tahoe for days four through six. It’s about four hours from Yosemite. Drive the full 72-mile loop, ski or snowshoe at Newport State Park, and soak in the lake views from different spots.
The last three or four days are perfect for a coastal return via Highway 1 or an inland swing through California’s wine country. This gives you some wiggle room for weather or spontaneous detours.
Definitely book your stays ahead of time—December is still busy in Yosemite and Tahoe, even if it’s quieter elsewhere.
Utah really shines in winter. I remember cruising through Arches National Park as red sandstone arches popped against a fresh layer of snow—honestly, it felt surreal.
The main road usually stays open, but after a heavy snowfall, you might have to wait a bit for the plows. It’s worth it for those views.
Vermont’s Route 100 is a classic. This 146-mile stretch winds through cozy villages and the Mad River Valley, and I always find something new along the way.
Skiing and winter sports are big here. Don’t skip the old-school charm of Weston’s Vermont Country Store; their regional treats and quirky souvenirs make for a perfect pit stop.
Virginia’s Skyline Drive is another favorite. It runs 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park, tracing the spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Even in winter, the road usually stays open. Over 500 miles of trails let you snowshoe or wander out to see waterfalls frozen into sparkling sculptures.
Wisconsin’s Highway 57 takes you through Door County North. I’ve driven the 85 miles from Green Bay to Gills Rock, and the ice formations at Cave Point County Park always impress.
If you love stargazing, Newport State Park is a designated Dark Sky Park. Bring a thermos and watch the stars come alive on clear, cold nights.
Alaska’s Seward Highway surprised me with how drivable it was, even in the depths of winter. The 50-mile route cuts through Chugach National Forest from Anchorage to Portage.
This road gets a lot of traffic, so crews keep it pretty clear. You might spot moose or eagles along the way, especially near the local conservation centers.
Honestly, each of these drives brings something special to the table. Winter might just be the best time to see them—if you’re willing to bundle up and hit the road.
