Day Trips from Scottsdale
← All Scottsdale day tripsDay Trips from Scottsdale: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Scottsdale, 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 Scottsdale
Scenic Pull-Off
1893 Upper Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona
Just 2 hrs 2 min from Scottsdale, 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 Lookout
AZ 85119, USA
Just 1 hr 14 min from Scottsdale, 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 View
Jerome, AZ 86331
Just 2 hrs 2 min from Scottsdale, 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.
Oak Creek Scenic Overlook
Sedona, AZ 86336
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Scottsdale, 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 at Trail #340
Buckeye, AZ 85396
Just 51 min from Scottsdale, 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.
Red Canyon Overlook
Sedona, AZ 86336
Just 2 hrs 19 min from Scottsdale, 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.
Observation Point
Phoenix, AZ 85042
Just 24 min from Scottsdale, 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 View
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Just 39 min from Scottsdale, 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.
Dobbins Lookout
Phoenix, AZ 85042
Just 48 min from Scottsdale, 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.
Buena Vista Lookout
Phoenix, AZ 85042
Just 51 min from Scottsdale, rated 4.8 stars by 147 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Inspiration Point Interpretive Overlook
Roosevelt, AZ 85545
Just 1 hr 39 min from Scottsdale, 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.
Scenic Overlook
AZ 85173, USA
Just 60 min from Scottsdale, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Scottsdale
What are the best scenic drives near Scottsdale, AZ?
The best scenic drives near Scottsdale 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 Scottsdale?
Most scenic drives near Scottsdale 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 Scottsdale?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Scottsdale, 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 Scottsdale?
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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