Think you have to be an avid hiker or willing to brave the intense summer heat to take in the amazing scenery that fills Mississippi? Think again! The Magnolia State is home to several scenic byways, which means you can view some of the state’s most spectacular sites from the comfort of your own vehicle on any of the scenic drives in Mississippi. So the next time you’re in the mood for a relaxing drive, check out one of these 11 Mississippi scenic drives.

1. Grand Gulf-Raymond Scenic Byway

Perfect for a relaxing drive, the Grand Gulf – Raymond Scenic Byway follows 50 miles of backroads through the lush countryside. More than beautiful views, the byway is loaded with history – it partly follows the path used by soldiers during Ulysses S. Grant's Vicksburg Campaign.Get a closer look at some of the historical sites on this drive:

2. The Great River Road

Running along the state’s western border, this national scenic byway follows the course of the Mighty Mississippi, spanning 3,000 miles through 10 states. The portion that runs through the Magnolia State extends over 200 miles and includes stunning views of Mississippi – the state and the river.

3. The Natchez Trace Parkway

By far the most well-known scenic drive in the state, the Natchez Trace Parkway is steeped in as much history as it is in natural beauty. The 444-mile parkway, which starts in Natchez and ends in Nashville, Tennessee, highlights some of the state’s most stunning terrain and is dotted with informative markers to point out all of the significant spots along the way. Get an in-depth look at Natchez Trace Parkway:

4. Wildflower Trail on US 51

The portion of US 51 that leads into the town of Crystal Springs isn’t an official scenic byway, but it offers stunning views nonetheless. Part of a statewide project known as "The Wildflower Trails of Mississippi," the highway is lined with colorful fields of wildflowers, making this a perfect route to take in the spring.

5. U.S. Route 61 a.k.a. Blues Highway

Spanning from Vicksburg all the way to Memphis, Tennessee, this legendary route is lined with must-see sites, both natural and man-made. Sprawling views of the vast Delta are accompanied by great restaurants, museums, and noteworthy Blues-related spots. Change the route up a bit by diverting west to Highway 1 near Clarksdale. The scenic two-lane highway, which is parallel to Route 61, runs along a seemingly boundless levee known as Mississippi’s Great Wall. Check out some of the historic spots along the Blues Highway:

6. Red Bluff a.k.a. The Secret Pearl River Run

Over the course of this 33-mile route, you’ll find plenty of hills, lots of twists and turns, and expansive wooded areas. Begin the scenic drive in Columbia, where you’ll take Highway 98 to Highway 587 all the way to Monticello. Along the way, you can stop at Red Bluff and take in the breathtaking views from atop the vast formation.

7. Brice's Crossroads Battlefield-Chief Tishomingo Scenic Byway

At under 20 miles, this is one of the shortest scenic byways in the state but that doesn’t mean the drive is any less interesting. The C-shaped route traverses two counties and is filled with sites that perfectly portray the state’s rich history. Popular stops along the way include Brice’s Cross Roads National Battlefield and Interpretive Center and the home site of Chief Tishomingo.

8. Highway 605

Beginning in Saucier and ending in Gulfport, this coastal drive will probably only take about an hour or two, leaving plenty of time for exploring along the way. Once in Gulfport, consider paying a visit to the Turkey Creek Community Historic District. The historic community was founded by freed slaves after the Civil War and features several original buildings.

9. Grenada Lake Loop

Winding through lush pine woods and providing pristine views of Grenada Lake, this 50-mile route is perfect for a serene drive. Dotted with bluffs, you’ll find plenty of places along the way to take in the beauty that is Grenada Lake.

10. Beach Boulevard

Formerly known as Old Highway 1, the Beach Boulevard Byway is split into two parts, with Highway 90 being the dividing point. The leisurely coastal drive is about 30 miles long and runs parallel to the coastline, offering exceptional views of the Gulf of Mexico.

11. Scenic Highway 18

Spanning from Port Gibson to Raymond, this scenic route is made up of small, charming towns and picturesque sites. Port Gibson’s historic Windsor Ruins and the Raymond courthouse are among the popular points of interest along this scenic path.

Have you taken any of these Mississippi scenic drives? Have another to add to this list? Tell us in the comments section!

Looking for more scenic sites in the Magnolia State? Check out these scenic overlooks in Mississippi. I think it's time for a road trip in Mississippi, how about you?