Day Trips from Merced
← All Merced day tripsDay Trips from Merced: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Merced, 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 Merced
Sierra Vista Scenic Byway, California
California, USA
Just 2 hrs 49 min from Merced, 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
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Just 2 hrs 43 min from Merced, 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
Arnold, CA 95223
Just 2 hrs from Merced, 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.
Big Sur National Scenic Byway (northernmost)
Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
Just 2 hrs 13 min from Merced, 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.
El Capitan Viewpoint
TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, CA 95389
Just 1 hr 50 min from Merced, 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.
Seal Beach Overlook
Big Sur, CA 93920
Just 2 hrs 56 min from Merced, rated 4.8 stars by 120 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.
Hanging Valley Viewpoint
TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, CA 95389
Just 1 hr 43 min from Merced, rated 4.8 stars by 184 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.
Bridalveil Falls Viewpoint
Northside Dr, TUOLUMNE MEADOWS
Just 1 hr 44 min from Merced, rated 4.8 stars by 1,206 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.
Castle Rock Viewpoint
Monterey, CA 93940
Just 2 hrs 28 min from Merced, rated 4.8 stars by 1,820 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 View
Santa Nella, CA 95322
Just 1 hr 6 min from Merced, 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 View Point
Hollister, CA 95023
Just 1 hr 3 min from Merced, 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.
Peddler Hill Scenic Viewpoint
Pioneer, CA 95666
Just 2 hrs 41 min from Merced, rated 4.7 stars by 308 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 Merced
What are the best scenic drives near Merced, CA?
The best scenic drives near Merced 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 Merced?
Most scenic drives near Merced 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 Merced?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Merced, 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 Merced?
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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