Day Trips from Bakersfield
← All Bakersfield day tripsDay Trips from Bakersfield: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Bakersfield, CA. 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 Bakersfield
Spooner Cove Overlook
San Luis Obispo, CA 93402
Just 2 hrs 39 min from Bakersfield, 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.
Scenic Overlook on Elk Hills Rd
Valley Acres, CA
Just 38 min from Bakersfield, rated 5.0 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Mulholland Highway Scenic Drive
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Just 1 hr 59 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Vista Point
, 12 Generals Hwy
Just 2 hrs 23 min from Bakersfield, 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.
Tehachapi Loop Scenic view
Monolith, CA 93561
Just 40 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.9 stars by 117 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 of Ojai
CA-150, Ojai
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Bakersfield, 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.
Panoramic Point Overlook
CA 93628, USA
Just 2 hrs 39 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.8 stars by 445 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Amphitheater Point Viewpoint
12 Generals Hwy, Sequoia National Park
Just 2 hrs 19 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.8 stars by 304 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.
Red Rock Scenic Overlook
Rimforest, CA 92378
Just 2 hrs 58 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.8 stars by 148 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.
Redwood Mountain Overlook
Hume, CA 93628
Just 2 hrs 32 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.7 stars by 130 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Top of Topanga Overlook
Topanga, CA 90290
Just 1 hr 54 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.7 stars by 1,143 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.
Coldburst Canyon Viewpoint
Canyon Viewpoint, Azusa
Just 2 hrs 31 min from Bakersfield, rated 4.7 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 Bakersfield
What are the best scenic drives near Bakersfield, CA?
The best scenic drives near Bakersfield 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 Bakersfield?
Most scenic drives near Bakersfield 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 Bakersfield?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield?
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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