Day Trips from Athens
← All Athens day tripsDay Trips from Athens: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Athens, GA. 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 Athens
Fort Mountain Scenic Overlook
GA 30705, USA
Just 2 hrs 31 min from Athens, rated 4.9 stars by 222 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
SC 29686, USA
Just 1 hr 49 min from Athens, rated 4.9 stars by 480 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.
Shooting Creek Scenic Overlook
Hayesville, NC 28904
Just 2 hrs 11 min from Athens, 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.
Caesar's Head Overlook
Cleveland, SC 29635
Just 2 hrs 17 min from Athens, rated 4.9 stars by 1,614 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
RBR Hogpen - Dodd Creek Lookout
Helen, GA 30528
Just 1 hr 37 min from Athens, rated 4.9 stars by 104 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Blue Valley Overlook
NC 28741, USA
Just 1 hr 50 min from Athens, 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.
Blue Ridge Overlook
GA 30525, USA
Just 1 hr 37 min from Athens, 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.
Sky Valley Overlook
Sky Valley, GA 30537
Just 1 hr 40 min from Athens, rated 4.8 stars by 508 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Best Scenic Overlook #2
Cleveland, GA 30528
Just 1 hr 37 min from Athens, rated 4.8 stars by 270 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.
Russell–Brasstown Scenic Byway
GA 30545, USA
Just 1 hr 24 min from Athens, 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 Hwy Lookout
Georgia 30528, USA
Just 1 hr 35 min from Athens, 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.
Overlook Deck
Sandy Springs, GA 30339
Just 1 hr 22 min from Athens, rated 4.8 stars by 194 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Athens
What are the best scenic drives near Athens, GA?
The best scenic drives near Athens 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 Athens?
Most scenic drives near Athens 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 Athens?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Athens, 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 Athens?
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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