Day Trips from Reno
← All Reno day tripsDay Trips from Reno: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Reno, NV. 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 Reno
Sierra Buttes scenic overlook
Bassetts, CA 96124
Just 1 hr 21 min from Reno, 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.
Lake Tahoe Scenic Overlook
Incline Village, NV 89451
Just 41 min from Reno, rated 4.9 stars by 933 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.
Donner Lake Overlook
Truckee, CA 96161
Just 47 min from Reno, rated 4.9 stars by 209 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.
Memorial Point Scenic Overlook
New Washoe City, NV 89704
Just 51 min from Reno, rated 4.9 stars by 899 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.
Emerald Bay State Park Lookout
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Just 1 hr 19 min from Reno, rated 4.8 stars by 661 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.
Emigrant Gap Scenic Overlook
Nevada City, CA 95959
Just 1 hr 2 min from Reno, rated 4.8 stars by 245 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.
Crystal Bay Scenic Overlook
Kings Beach, CA 96143
Just 1 hr from Reno, 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.
Donner Pass View Point
Truckee, CA 96161
Just 49 min from Reno, 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.
Geiger Lookout Wayside Park
NV 89521, USA
Just 22 min from Reno, rated 4.7 stars by 613 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.
Scenic Overlook
CA 95959, USA
Just 1 hr 9 min from Reno, rated 4.7 stars by 108 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.
Geiger Lookout Point
Reno, NV 89521
Just 22 min from Reno, rated 4.7 stars by 429 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Osprey Overlook
Susanville, CA 96130
Just 1 hr 55 min from Reno, rated 4.5 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 Reno
What are the best scenic drives near Reno, NV?
The best scenic drives near Reno 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 Reno?
Most scenic drives near Reno 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 Reno?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Reno, 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 Reno?
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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