6 Must-See Scenic Drives for Retirees and the Toll Costs To Know

Ready to hit the open road and enjoy stunning, picturesque scenery? The United States is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes. From desert desolate beauty to mountain peaks and coastal views, the U.S. has it all — and retirement is a great time to soak it up.

There are several Instagram-worthy drives well-suited for retirees in search of a leisurely afternoon, but some come at a cost. Here are six scenic drives that every retiree should take, plus the toll costs to know before you go.

Pebble Beach is situated on the Monterey Peninsula, and is a popular destination known for its striking natural beauty, dramatic cliffs and white sandy beaches. It’s also one of the prettiest drives. The famed 17-mile coastal loop treats drivers to cypress forests, ocean vistas, and iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress. It’s open to anyone, but there is a cost.

Toll info: The entrance fee is $12.00 per vehicle, but if you spend $35 or more at the Pebble Beach Resorts, the fee is reimbursed.

Located just west of Colorado Springs is the Pikes Peak Highway Gateway, which features 19 miles of jaw-dropping views, a rich history (the windy mountainous road was built in 1915) and legendary captivating scenery.

While Pikes Peak Highway is iconic, for those who don’t like heights, you might want to skip it. The climb starts at starts at 7,400 feet and shoots up to an astounding 14,115 feet.

Toll info: Drivers passing beyond mile 7 must purchase a $2 Timed-Entry Permit. Anyone without an annual pass needs to buy a day pass — $18 for every adult, or $65 per car with up to five passengers, with $13 for each additional adult and $5 for every additional child. Reservations are required from May 23 through Sept. 30.

Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway in Lake George Village, New York is a shorter drive — just 5.5 miles — but the breathtaking scenery is not to be missed. You can take in 100-mile views, which include Vermont’s Green Mountains, New Hampshire’s White Mountains, New York’s Adirondack High Peaks, and, on a very clear day, the Laurentian Mountains of Canada.

You don’t have to wait to get to the top to enjoy a nice landscape, though. On the way, you can stop and enjoy three vistas along the highways — The Narrows, Lake George and the Eagle’s Nest.

Toll info: Expect to pay $10 per car and $5 for a motorcycle. The season opens May 24 and ends Nov. 11.

Nestled in Wilmington, New York near Lake Placid, the Whiteface Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that boasts views of Vermont and Canada. The highest elevation reaches 4,867 feet and is about an 8-mile stretch. Besides the gorgeous views, guests can hit the gift shop at the top and the restaurant 4610′ Café.

Toll info: Fees vary depending on the number of passengers. For one car and the driver, it’s $25, the second passenger is $20, and each additional passenger is $10. Motorcycles are $25, and for military and veterans, the fee is $10.

Conquer New England’s highest peak to the oldest man-made attraction in the U.S. The 7.6-mile road is a unique driving experience that offers unforgettable views of the area. At the top, you’ll find a gift shop, museum and cafeteria along with visitor information.

Toll info: The cost is $36 per adult.

Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, captivates visitors with its unusual charm and feature — its summit ridge famously resembles the profile of a human face. The elevation reaches 4,393 feet and is 4.5 miles of majestic scenery.

Toll info: It costs $37 for the driver and $14 per passenger. During holidays and peak season, the fee jumps to $48 for the driver and $18 per passenger. Holiday and peak dates include: May 23 through 26; Aug. 29 through Sept. 1; Fridays through Sundays for Sept. 2 through 28; Sept. 29 through Oct. 19.