Scenic Drives And Overlooks Near Atlanta

Explore the best Scenic Drives And Overlooks within easy reach of Atlanta, from winding routes in the North Georgia mountains to hidden skyline viewpoints inside the Perimeter. On this page, you’ll find practical, locally focused guides to short day trips, sunset overlooks, and leaf-peeping drives that start in or near Atlanta, GA, with details on driving times, road conditions, and what to expect when you arrive.

Whether you’re planning a quick escape from Midtown traffic, looking for kid-friendly pull-offs with safe parking, or comparing mountain routes off GA-400 and I-75, these articles are designed to help you choose the right drive for your time, season, and comfort level. Use them to narrow down your options, avoid overcrowded spots, and build a realistic plan for seeing more of Atlanta’s nearby hills, lakes, and long-range views in a single, well-planned outing.

Scenic Drives And Overlooks

Brasstown Bald Summit Road

If you’re in Atlanta and looking for a nearby escape with big mountain views, Brasstown Bald Summit Road is one of the most rewarding day trips you can make. It’s the short, steep access road that leads to the top of Brasstown Bald, the highest natural point in Georgia, and it’s packed with scenic overlooks, cool mountain air, and classic North Georgia views.

Scenic Drives And Overlooks

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests Byway

If you’re looking for a scenic mountain drive within easy reach of Atlanta, the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests Byway is one of the most rewarding day trips you can make. Think winding roads, forested hills, rushing rivers, waterfalls, overlooks, and small mountain towns—all within a few hours of the city.

Scenic Drives And Overlooks

Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway (SC 11)

If you’re in Atlanta and you love mountain views, waterfalls, and laid‑back small towns, the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway (SC 11) in upstate South Carolina is one of the best day trips and nearby escapes you can take by car.

Scenic Drives And Overlooks

Cloudland Canyon Scenic Rim

If you’re in Atlanta and craving mountain views, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs without committing to a full weekend away, Cloudland Canyon State Park’s Scenic Rim is one of the best day trips you can take.

Scenic Drives And Overlooks

Hwy 197 Soque River Drive To Lake Burton

If you’re in Atlanta and craving fresh mountain air, cool rivers, and winding forest roads, the Hwy 197 drive along the Soque River up to Lake Burton is one of the most rewarding day trips you can take. It’s close enough for a single-day escape, yet feels a world away from I‑285 and Peachtree traffic.

Scenic Drives And Overlooks

Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway (GA 348)

The Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway (GA 348) is one of the most dramatic mountain drives within easy reach of Atlanta. Winding through the Chattahoochee National Forest between Helen and Blairsville, it delivers sweeping overlooks, cool forest shade, and quick access to waterfalls and hiking trails—all in a single day trip.