It might be out of the way, but if you have the chance to drive in Alaska, you should try to make time for the George Parks Highway, also known as Alaska Route 3, as it winds through some of the prettier sites in the entire state. In fact, Readers Digest called this one of the Most Scenic Drives in America, so it's well-worth the trip.

The road is very close to Mt. McKinley, which is the highest peak in America. You'll need to be an expert climber to ascend this mountain, and the season for doing so is typically between May and June. However, you don't need to be a mountaineer to take in this gorgeous view. The area around the mountain, in Denali State Park, will give you plenty of vantage points that will rival the view from the very top.

One thing to keep in mind before you embark on this jaw-droppingly beautiful journey is your car's maintenance. Nobody wants to be stuck in the middle of an Alaskan State Park with a broken-down vehicle. Before you head out, make sure your tires are equipped to deal with cold weather, and it wouldn't hurt to get a vehicle inspection and tune-up as well.