Day Trips from Salem
← All Salem day tripsDay Trips from Salem: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Salem, OR. 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 Salem
Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area
Cascade Locks, OR 97014
Just 1 hr 19 min from Salem, 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.
Aufderheide Scenic Byway
Blue River, OR 97413
Just 1 hr 53 min from Salem, 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.
Little Creek Scenic Overlook
Seal Rock, OR 97376
Just 1 hr 49 min from Salem, 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.
Neahkahnie Viewpoint
Arch Cape, OR 97102
Just 2 hrs 12 min from Salem, rated 4.9 stars by 1,776 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Pittock Acres Park Viewpoint
Portland, OR 97210
Just 58 min from Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 825 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.
Otter Crest State Scenic Viewpoint
OR 97369, USA
Just 1 hr 31 min from Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 1,086 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.
Cape Horn Lookout
Washougal, WA 98671
Just 1 hr 23 min from Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 874 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Three Sisters Viewpoint
Bend, OR 97701
Just 2 hrs 19 min from Salem, 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.
Rockwood Viewpoint Hwy 26
Rhododendron, OR 97049
Just 1 hr 43 min from Salem, 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.
Chanticleer Point Lookout
Corbett, OR 97019
Just 1 hr 17 min from Salem, 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.
Silverfalls State Park Scenic Viewpoint
Sublimity, OR 97385
Just 34 min from Salem, 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.
Symons State Scenic Viewpoint
OR 97141, USA
Just 1 hr 42 min from Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 180 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 Salem
What are the best scenic drives near Salem, OR?
The best scenic drives near Salem 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 Salem?
Most scenic drives near Salem 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 Salem?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Salem, 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 Salem?
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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