Day Trips from Durham
← All Durham day tripsDay Trips from Durham: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Durham, NC. 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 Durham
Scenic vista
Troy, NC 27371
Just 1 hr 36 min from Durham, 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.
Raven Rock Trail Overlook
Lillington, NC 27546
Just 1 hr 7 min from Durham, rated 5.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hanging Rock
Walnut Cove, NC 27052
Just 1 hr 51 min from Durham, rated 4.9 stars by 742 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The Great Valley Overlook
Blue Ridge, VA 24064
Just 2 hrs 49 min from Durham, rated 4.9 stars by 290 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Grandview Overlook
Boone, NC 28607
Just 2 hrs 31 min from Durham, rated 4.9 stars by 294 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.
Sunset view
Durham, NC 27703
Just 26 min from Durham, 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.
Morrow Mountain Scenic Vista
Albemarle, NC 28001
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Durham, rated 4.9 stars by 243 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.
Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic Point
Deep Gap, NC 28618
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Durham, rated 4.8 stars by 130 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.
Roanoke Valley Overlook
Copper Hill, VA 24079
Just 2 hrs 39 min from Durham, rated 4.7 stars, 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
Fancy Gap, VA 24328
Just 2 hrs 8 min from Durham, 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.
Pilot Mountain Scenic Overlook
Pilot Mountain Pkwy, Pinnacle
Just 1 hr 27 min from Durham, rated 4.6 stars by 495 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.
Raleigh Union Station Lookout
Raleigh, NC 27603
Just 32 min from Durham, rated 4.6 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 Durham
What are the best scenic drives near Durham, NC?
The best scenic drives near Durham 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 Durham?
Most scenic drives near Durham 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 Durham?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Durham, 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 Durham?
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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