On January 19, 2021, the U.S. Department of Transportation approved the 2021 designations to America’s Byways®.  Hocking Hills Scenic Byway has been designated as a National Scenic Byway and will officially join the collection of America’s Byways®, which includes Ohio's: Amish Country Byway, Historic National Road, Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail, Ohio & Erie Canalway and Ohio River Scenic Byway.

In 2020, 63 nomination applications were submitted. Forty-nine byways in 28 states were designated, including 34 National Scenic Byways and 15 All-American Roads. This determination takes into account evidence of intrinsic qualities; national or regional significance; overall visitor’s experience; and long-term sustainability.

All newly designated byways will be featured in a commemorative 2021 National Scenic Byways Program Designations Booklet, and will also be added to the America’s Byways website.