Day Trips from Knoxville
← All Knoxville day tripsDay Trips from Knoxville: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Knoxville, 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 Knoxville
Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook
TN 37738, USA
Just 1 hr 22 min from Knoxville, rated 4.9 stars by 311 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.
Wiseman's View Scenic Overlook
NC 28752, USA
Just 2 hrs 59 min from Knoxville, 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.
Fort Mountain Scenic Overlook
GA 30705, USA
Just 2 hrs 12 min from Knoxville, 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.
Veterans Overlook at Clinch Mountain
Bean Station, TN 37708
Just 1 hr 3 min from Knoxville, rated 4.9 stars by 1,267 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 45 min from Knoxville, 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.
Look Rock Lower Overlook
Tallassee, TN 37878
Just 50 min from Knoxville, rated 4.9 stars by 295 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.
FootHills Parkway West Overlook # 1
TN 37878, USA
Just 41 min from Knoxville, rated 4.9 stars by 121 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.
Pinnacle Overlook
VA 24248, USA
Just 1 hr 35 min from Knoxville, rated 4.9 stars by 515 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 1 hr 29 min from Knoxville, 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.
Chilhowee Mountain Overlook
Benton, TN 37307
Just 1 hr 50 min from Knoxville, rated 4.9 stars by 402 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.
Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook
TN 37738, USA
Just 1 hr 3 min from Knoxville, rated 4.8 stars by 3,617 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Carlos C. Campbell Overlook
TN 37738, USA
Just 1 hr 11 min from Knoxville, rated 4.8 stars by 521 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 Knoxville
What are the best scenic drives near Knoxville, TN?
The best scenic drives near Knoxville 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 Knoxville?
Most scenic drives near Knoxville 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 Knoxville?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Knoxville, 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 Knoxville?
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.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me