Day Trips from Altoona
← All Altoona day tripsDay Trips from Altoona: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Altoona, PA. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Altoona
Northwest Overlook Station 11
Boalsburg, PA 16827
Just 49 min from Altoona, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Point Lookout Overlook Green Ridge State Forest
MD 21766, USA
Just 1 hr 43 min from Altoona, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Rimrock Overlook
Bradford, PA 16701
Just 2 hrs 45 min from Altoona, rated 4.9 stars by 971 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Overlook Buchanan State Forest
Harrisonville, PA 17228
Just 1 hr 6 min from Altoona, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Penn's View Overlook
PA 16882, USA
Just 1 hr 36 min from Altoona, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Upper Incline Scenic Overlook
Pittsburgh, PA 15211
Just 1 hr 56 min from Altoona, rated 4.9 stars by 265 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Headache Hill Scenic View
Patton, PA 16668
Just 30 min from Altoona, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
218 Grandview Overlook
Pittsburgh, PA 15211
Just 1 hr 55 min from Altoona, rated 4.9 stars by 488 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Belleville, PA 17004
Just 1 hr 11 min from Altoona, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Hawn’s Overlook
PA 16647, USA
Just 52 min from Altoona, rated 4.9 stars by 288 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Green Ridge Overlook
MD 21530, USA
Just 1 hr 23 min from Altoona, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic overlook
PA 15557, USA
Just 1 hr 30 min from Altoona, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Altoona
What are the best scenic drives near Altoona, PA?
The best scenic drives near Altoona include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Altoona?
Most scenic drives near Altoona range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Altoona?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Altoona, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Altoona?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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