Day Trips from Los Angeles
← All Los Angeles day tripsDay Trips from Los Angeles: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles
Lookout Point Glendora Mountain Road
La Verne, CA 91750
Just 57 min from Los Angeles, 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.
Latigo Canyon Road Scenic Drive
Malibu, CA 90265
Just 58 min from Los Angeles, 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.
Cloudland Truck Trail Scenic View
San Bernardino, CA 92407
Just 1 hr 14 min from Los Angeles, 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.
Mulholland Highway Scenic Drive
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Just 45 min from Los Angeles, 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.
Scenic Overlook
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Just 1 hr 29 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.9 stars by 104 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.
Decker Road Scenic Drive
CA-23, Malibu
Just 59 min from Los Angeles, 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.
Scenic Outlook - Vistapoint
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Just 46 min from Los Angeles, 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.
Scenic overlook of Ojai
CA-150, Ojai
Just 1 hr 32 min from Los Angeles, 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.
Autry Overlook
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Just 26 min from Los Angeles, 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 Overlook & Information Kiosk
CA 92649, USA
Just 43 min from Los Angeles, 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.
Rim of the World Scenic Drive
San Bernardino, CA 92404
Just 1 hr 30 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.8 stars by 116 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Red Rock Scenic Overlook
Rimforest, CA 92378
Just 1 hr 22 min from Los Angeles, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Los Angeles
What are the best scenic drives near Los Angeles, CA?
The best scenic drives near Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?
Most scenic drives near Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?
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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