Taking the roads less traveled to explore North Carolina's history, geography and culture is now easier than ever thanks to the redesigned Web site of the N.C. Scenic Byways program.

The N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) launched the new site last week at www.ncdot.gov/travel/scenic.

The state's 54 scenic byways - which include several stretches of highway in Moore County - are carefully selected to embody the diverse beauty and culture of the Tar Heel State, a news release said. They provide travelers a safe alternative to the faster-paced traffic and commercial areas found along major highways and interstates.

"Scenic byways are a great alternative to busy highways that can help you explore North Carolina not far from your own backyard," said N.C. Transportation Secretary Gene Conti. "The new Web site makes experiencing these routes more convenient and educational than ever before."

The new Web site features an interactive trip planner. Selecting the mountain, Piedmont or coastal plain region leads to a detailed map of all scenic byway routes within that area. Users can choose the road or aerial view and zoom in to get a close look at towns and sites near and along the byway.

Rolling the mouse over the icons that denote the byways reveals a pop-up box with a description of each, as well as a link to the 173-page Scenic Byways guide to learn more about the route. The guide, which can also be accessed from a link at the top of the page, provides information on all 54 scenic byways as well as the N.C. Scenic Byways program.

A series of videos at the bottom of the page provides an in-depth look at the unique history and features of several byways. You can discover how generations of families have passed down their craft along Pottery Road or the importance of the longleaf pines on the Sandhills Scenic Drive to the ecosystem and industry of North Carolina.

Additionally, the full text of the N.C. Scenic Byways Teachers' Guide can now be downloaded from the Web site for the first time ever. The guide provides fun, hands-on lesson plans and activities to help educators and students learn more about the byways and their links to the history, geography and culture of the state.

With the new N.C. Scenic Byways Web site, it's easier than ever to plan your drive and learn more about these unique routes from the Blue Ridge Mountains and the fertile plains to the crystal blue coastline.