Day Trips from Johnson City
← All Johnson City day tripsDay Trips from Johnson City: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Johnson City, TN. 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 Johnson City
Powell Valley Overlook
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
Just 1 hr 8 min from Johnson City, rated 4.9 stars by 782 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Thunder Hill Overlook
NC 28605, USA
Just 1 hr 28 min from Johnson City, rated 4.9 stars by 760 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
View Doubletop Mountain Overlook
NC 28786, USA
Just 2 hrs 17 min from Johnson City, 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.
Graybeard Mountain View Overlook
Barnardsville, NC 28709
Just 1 hr 31 min from Johnson City, 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.
Wiseman's View Scenic Overlook
NC 28752, USA
Just 1 hr 24 min from Johnson City, rated 4.9 stars by 1,411 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
Whitesburg, KY 41858
Just 1 hr 55 min from Johnson City, 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.
State Line Lookout
Haysi, VA 24256
Just 2 hrs 21 min from Johnson City, 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.
Grandview Overlook
Boone, NC 28607
Just 1 hr 31 min from Johnson City, 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.
Ben Morton Overlook
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Just 2 hrs 23 min from Johnson City, rated 4.9 stars by 1,578 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Mountain View Overlook
Boomer, NC 28606
Just 2 hrs 3 min from Johnson City, 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.
Buzzard's Roost Overlook
Clyde, NC 28721
Just 2 hrs 22 min from Johnson City, rated 4.8 stars by 157 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Graybeard Mountain View
Barnardsville, NC 28709
Just 1 hr 34 min from Johnson City, rated 4.8 stars by 144 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Johnson City
What are the best scenic drives near Johnson City, TN?
The best scenic drives near Johnson City 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 Johnson City?
Most scenic drives near Johnson City 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 Johnson City?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Johnson City, 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 Johnson City?
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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