Globe trotting: See you in your Chevrolet

SEE THE USA IN YOUR CHEVROLET

Members of the Society of American Travel Writers were surveyed about their favorite scenic drives in the country. Society president Adele Malott, who considers Nevada's Pyramid Lake region among her favorites, says the country is full of highways that wind through beautiful landscapes. Here are the top 10 picks for this year:

Blue Ridge Parkway: Virginia and North Carolina. "A road along the mountain crest — marvel at changing vistas and suddenly yawning chasms. A motorized metaphor for the trail experience — you see while driving a lot like what you see in the woods, but getting out of the car and exploring a hiking trail is a must."

Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway: South Dakota. "This 70-mile loop, including Iron Mountain Road, Needles Highway and Custer State Park, winds through tall rock formations and tunnels, offering occasional views of Mount Rushmore. Spectacular and ever-present wildlife."

Port Townsend to Neah Bay: Washington's Olympic Peninsula. "This sensory drive experience includes a Victorian seaport, 19th century general stores and an island lighthouse."

Mount Cheaha: Alabama. "A very straight road with a 30-degree angle drop from the mountain — for 3 miles."

Going-to-the-Sun Road: Glacier National Park, Mont. "A narrow, winding road over the top of the Rockies, offering scenic overviews galore. Hugs the side of the mountains up and over the Continental Divide."

Great River Road: Baton Rouge — New Orleans, La. "This path snakes along the Mississippi River through the old plantations, many of which are open for tours — you'll swoon like Scarlett O'Hara. Road trippers will catch views of lush sugar cane fields, wildlife, ancient live oak and quaint riverside hamlets."

Great River Road: Iowa, Wisconsin & Minnesota along the Mississippi River. "Crisscross the river via many bridges, dams and locks to take in the beauty and cultural flavor of three states. Many writers and artists have been inspired by the deep valleys and high ridge lines."

Kancagamus Highway: New Hampshire. "A wilderness drive stretching from the Pemigewassat River to the Saco River filled with gorges, waterfalls and mountain overlooks. We can't imagine a more scenic 34 miles."

Overseas Highway: Florida Keys. "Unspectacular is the road itself which tethers the scattered isles from Key Largo to Key West. But Route 1 serves up the dreamiest views of crystalline waters and tropical life teeming above and among the reefs. Not many byways offer sunrise and sunset views."

Acadia National Park (27-mile Park Loop Road): Maine. "I grew up near the area and am still in awe of the changing mountain, lake and ocean views."

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