Aerial view of a mountain range covered in green trees, with fog filling the valleys, at sunset.

Scenic Drives in the Ozarks Near Branson, Missouri

The Ozark Mountains are made for road trips. Rolling hills, winding highways, dense forests, and shimmering lakes create some of the most scenic drives in the Midwest. Centered around Branson, travelers can explore a variety of routes that showcase the region’s natural beauty while remaining close to local dining, attractions, and outdoor recreation.


Whether you’re planning a relaxed afternoon drive or a full day of exploring, these scenic drives in the Ozarks offer unforgettable views and classic Ozark serenity.

What Makes an Ozark Scenic Drive Unique?

The Ozarks are known for dramatic elevation changes, long ridge-top views, and quiet valleys shaped by rivers and lakes. Roads curve naturally with the landscape, offering ever-changing scenery that’s much more immersive than repetitive.



Seasonality adds even more appeal. Spring brings dogwoods and redbuds, summer delivers lush green hillsides, fall explodes with color, and winter offers peaceful, uncrowded roads with long-range views through empty trees. No matter the season, you’ll experience a slower, more connected way to see southern Missouri.

Road through a forest of autumn trees with golden leaves.

The Best Scenic Drives in the Ozarks Near Branson

Table Rock Lake Loop

The Table Rock Lake Loop is one of the most popular scenic drives in the Ozarks—and for good reason. This loop follows highways 165 and 265, tracing the shoreline and high bluffs around Table Rock Lake.


Drivers are rewarded with sweeping lake views, wooded hills, and frequent pull-offs for photos. The route passes near Kimberling City and offers easy access to marinas, picnic areas, and short trails. It’s an ideal choice for visitors who want maximum scenery without committing to a long drive.


Ozark Mountain Highroad (Highway 465)

The Ozark Mountain Highroad, also known as Highway 465, provides a peaceful alternative to Branson’s busier roads. Elevated above the surrounding countryside, this route winds through forests and open ridgelines, making it especially popular when fall foliage is at its peak.


This drive pairs beautifully with other nearby highways, allowing travelers to create custom loops through the hills. If you’re looking for a calm, scenic stretch that highlights the Ozarks’ natural contours, the Ozark mountain highroad is a great choice.


Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway (Highway 86)

For those wanting a longer adventure, the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway along Highway 86 delivers classic Ozark landscapes over an extended distance. The route cuts through rolling highlands, passes arms of Table Rock Lake, and skirts remote forested areas that are mostly untouched.


This byway is perfect for travelers who enjoy uninterrupted driving and wide-open space, and the views of the lake and upland vistas keep the experience unique.


Highway 76: Branson, Missouri and Beyond

Highway 76 is often associated with theaters and attractions, but head west or east of the main strip and you’ll be back on the open road. This drive takes you through rolling hills, wooded stretches, and rural landscapes—a connecting route between Branson and the surrounding communities.


It’s a great choice if you want both the entertainment stops and authentic Ozark scenery without leaving the main highway.

Winding road through lush green hills, partly obscured by fog, under a cloudy sky.

Exploring Lesser-Known Ozarks Scenic Drives

Beyond the well-known routes, the Ozarks are full of quiet county roads that wind through shallow valleys, aging farms, and over the tops of bluffs. These lesser-traveled roads often provide the most intimate experience of the landscape and are ideal for travelers who enjoy spontaneous exploration.



Combining these back roads with major routes allows you to build a custom itinerary and discover your own favorites.

When to Take a Scenic Drive in the Ozarks

Fall is the most popular season thanks to vibrant foliage, but spring and summer offer equally beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light, especially near lakes and overlooks. Always allow extra time for photo stops—you’ll want it.

Where to Stay While Exploring the Ozarks

Any great experience in the Ozarks starts with the right place to stay. Lodging close to nature while remaining near Branson’s road network makes exploring easier and more enjoyable.


If you’re looking to make the most of your trip, stop by Bull Creek RV Park, a peaceful and conveniently located RV destination in Branson. With easy access to the best things to do in Branson, as well as all the routes on this list, it’s an ideal basecamp for your Ozark adventure.

Todd Reed owner of Bull Creek RV Park in Branson Missouri

Todd reed

Owner

Todd Reed is a residential real estate appraiser based in Springfield, MO, bringing expertise and attention to detail to every project. Todd owns Bull Creek RV Park in Branson, MO—an upscale boutique RV park known for its spacious RV placements, exceptional customer service, and unique amenities like glamping cabins, a crystal-clear creek, and a lively flagstone patio for live music and food events. When not working, Todd enjoys spending quality time with his two sons, Tate and Landon, who keep things exciting and full of adventure.