While the United States is home to some of the most beautiful, scenic routes to drive on, its diverse geography and large variety of landscapes also lead to some seriously dangerous roads. For adrenaline junkies, driving enthusiasts, or any curious minds out there, we’ve compiled a list of five of the most dangerous roads to drive on in the United States. Make sure you approach these drives with care because these routes certainly aren’t for the faint-hearted. Fasten your seat belts, double-check your mirrors, and make sure you’re fully prepared for the adventure you’re about to embark on.

1. James Dalton Highway, Alaska

Designed as a supply route for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, the James Dalton Highway is a terrifying 414 miles across some of the most remote, uninhabited regions in the entire country. One of the biggest concerns driving down this highway is the weather conditions - with the most severe weather, drivers are faced with terribly icy roads, blizzards, and high winds which all pose significant risks.

Passing by only three towns along the entire stretch, you’ll barely have access to any gas stations and amenities. With the added challenge of large transport trucks kicking up gravel, this just means there’s a good chance your windshield will get cracked. If you ever find yourself needing to go down this route for whatever reason, you better stock up on survival gear and brush up on your endurance driving skills!

Photo by Micah Bochart, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

2. U.S. Route 550, Colorado 

Also known as the “Million Dollar Highway,” this drive is renowned for both its breathtaking scenery and treachery. Snaking its way through 25 miles of rugged mountains without any guardrails to prevent vehicles from plunging off the steep cliffs, it’s an absolutely ruthless drive. With the road often slick due to ice and snow, especially in the winter, the weather conditions make it nearly impossible to drive. What’s more, sudden and frequent weather changes make visibility poor, and with danger of falling rocks and narrow lanes, there’s just so much to be worried about. Although you may be greeted with some stunning views, the road is just too dangerous for you to take your attention anywhere else.

formulanone from Huntsville, United States via Wikimedia Commons

3. Interstate 4, Florida

While the Interstate 4 may not have the desolate remoteness of the Dalton Highway or the precarious cliffs of the Million Dollar Highway, trust us when we say it has its own kind of danger: traffic. Stretching across a long 132 miles from Tampa to Daytona Beach, this highway is actually one of the busiest and deadliest in the entire country. Every day, the road sees a high rate of traffic fatalities due to a mix of heavy traffic, sudden weather changes, aggressive drivers, and inadequate lighting. Unfortunately, thanks to this combination of dangerous elements, Interstate 4 has earned the grim title of being the most dangerous interstate in the U.S. more than once based on the fatality rate alone.

Photo by qwesy qwesy via Wikimedia Commons

4. Highway 2, Montana 

Highway 2 in Montana is a devastatingly long 666-mile stretch that has long been known for its high fatality rates. This windy road passes through vast open landscapes, which are surprisingly and hypnotically monotonous, often leading drivers to fatigue. With severe weather conditions particularly in the winter, the road also becomes incredibly icy and slick. 

Mostly in a rural and remote area, it means that emergency services can take an extremely long time to reach any accidents that occur. Thanks to this dangerous mix of elements, this highway has earned the nickname, “Montana’s Longest Graveyard”. 

Photo by Mark Holloway via Wikimedia Commons

5. U.S. Route 1, Florida

Making its way onto the list a second time, Florida has not just one, but two incredibly dangerous roads. The U.S. Route 1, also known as the Overseas Highway, is both a captivating and risky drive. This 113-mile highway connects the Florida Keys to the mainland and is completely surrounded by ocean on both sides. While the views are spectacular, the road is way too narrow and guardrails are minimal. During peak tourist season, the traffic can be dense, making accidents common. With the added threat of severe weather, particularly hurricanes, it also adds to the danger level. Despite its unparalleled beauty, one careless moment on this scenic drive can turn into a terrifying experience.

Photo by Niranjan Arminius via Wikimedia Commons

Whether it's due to weather, remoteness, traffic, or geography itself, these five roads demonstrate that scenic drives don’t always mean safety. If you find yourself on these roads at any point, make sure you approach with awareness, preparedness, and extreme levels of caution. Safety always comes first!