Day Trips from Payson
← All Payson day tripsDay Trips from Payson: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Payson, AZ. 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 Payson
Scenic Overlook - Big Bear Canyon
Pine, AZ 85544
Just 27 min from Payson, 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 Pull-Off
1893 Upper Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona
Just 1 hr 44 min from Payson, 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 View
Jerome, AZ 86331
Just 1 hr 48 min from Payson, rated 4.9 stars by 160 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.
Scenic Lookout
AZ 85119, USA
Just 1 hr 54 min from Payson, 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.
Point Of The Mountain Overlook
AZ 85938, USA
Just 2 hrs 40 min from Payson, 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.
Oak Creek Scenic Overlook
Sedona, AZ 86336
Just 1 hr 43 min from Payson, 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.
Red Canyon Overlook
Sedona, AZ 86336
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Payson, rated 4.9 stars by 115 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.
Scenic Overlook
AZ 85173, USA
Just 1 hr 40 min from Payson, rated 4.8 stars by 139 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.
Scenic overlook
Sedona, AZ 86336
Just 1 hr 42 min from Payson, rated 4.8 stars by 160 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.
Dobbins Lookout
Phoenix, AZ 85042
Just 1 hr 51 min from Payson, rated 4.8 stars by 5,533 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Inspiration Point Interpretive Overlook
Roosevelt, AZ 85545
Just 50 min from Payson, rated 4.8 stars by 153 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.
Fay Canyon Overlook
AZ 86336, USA
Just 1 hr 55 min from Payson, rated 4.8 stars, 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 Payson
What are the best scenic drives near Payson, AZ?
The best scenic drives near Payson 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 Payson?
Most scenic drives near Payson 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 Payson?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Payson, 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 Payson?
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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