Most Scenic Road Trips in Raleigh, United States
1. Neuse River Trail Scenic Byway
A picturesque drive along the Neuse River, offering scenic views of rolling hills and farmlands.
- River Views: Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Neuse River during your journey.
- Historic Sites: Discover various historic sites along the byway, including colonial settlements.
- Recreational Opportunities: Take a break to enjoy fishing, boating, and hiking at designated recreation areas.
2. Seven Springs Mountain Loop
A challenging but rewarding drive through the rolling hills of Eno River State Park.
- Mountain Views: Experience breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from various vantage points.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species.
- Hiking Trails: Take a break to explore numerous hiking trails within the park.
3. Jordan Lake Scenic Loop
A serene drive around Jordan Lake, offering stunning waterfront and woodland views.
- Lake Views: Enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Jordan Lake throughout your journey.
- Recreational Activities: Participate in various recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming at designated areas.
- Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore the Jordan Lake Wildlife Refuge to spot diverse bird species and other wildlife.
4. Cape Fear River Scenic Byway
A scenic drive along the Cape Fear River, showcasing beautiful waterfront views and historic sites.
- River Views: Experience breathtaking views of the Cape Fear River throughout your journey.
- Historic Sites: Discover historic sites such as the Averasboro Battlefield and the Fayetteville Arsenal.
- Recreational Opportunities: Take a break to enjoy various recreational activities like fishing, boating, and hiking.
5. Southern Outer Loop (SOLO)
A scenic drive around Raleigh that offers a mix of cityscapes, parks, and rural landscapes.
- Cityscapes: Enjoy panoramic views of Raleigh's city skyline and iconic landmarks.
- Parks and Nature Reserves: Pass by numerous parks and nature reserves, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.
- Rural Landscapes: Experience the tranquility of Raleigh's rolling hills and farmlands along the drive.
6. Hallifax River Scenic Byway
A scenic drive along the Hallifax River, showcasing beautiful waterfront views and historic sites.
- River Views: Experience breathtaking views of the Hallifax River throughout your journey.
- Historic Sites: Discover historic sites such as the Tryon Palace and the Harrell-Brown Farmstead.
- Recreational Opportunities: Take a break to enjoy various recreational activities like fishing, boating, and hiking.
7. New Hope-Carvers Creek State Park Scenic Drive
A scenic drive through the rolling hills of New Hope-Carvers Creek State Park, offering beautiful woodland views.
- Hill Country Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the rolling hills and valleys within the park.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species.
- Hiking Trails: Take a break to explore numerous hiking trails within the park.
8. Tobacco Road Trail Scenic Byway
A scenic drive through tobacco farms and pine forests, offering a glimpse into North Carolina's heritage.
- Countryside Views: Experience the beauty of rolling hills covered in tobacco farms and pine forests.
- Historic Sites: Discover historic sites such as the Burt's Mill and the Trent River Bridge.
- Recreational Opportunities: Take a break to enjoy various recreational activities like fishing, boating, and hiking.
9. Windsor-Ashville Scenic Byway
A scenic drive along the Roanoke River, offering stunning waterfront views and historic sites.
- River Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Roanoke River throughout your journey.
- Historic Sites: Discover historic sites such as the Historic Edenton State Historic Site and Chowan County Courthouse.
- Recreational Opportunities: Take a break to enjoy various recreational activities like fishing, boating, and hiking.
10. Occoneechee Mountain Scenic Loop
A scenic drive through the rolling hills of Eno River State Park, offering stunning woodland views.
- Hill Country Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the rolling hills and valleys within the park.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species.
- Hiking Trails: Take a break to explore numerous hiking trails within the park.
11. Cliffs of the Neuse Scenic Byway
A scenic drive along the Neuse River, showcasing beautiful waterfront views and historic sites.
- River Views: Experience breathtaking views of the Neuse River throughout your journey.
- Historic Sites: Discover historic sites such as the Tryon Palace and the Harrell-Brown Farmstead.
- Recreational Opportunities: Take a break to enjoy various recreational activities like fishing, boating, and hiking.
12. Cape Fear Coastal Scenic Byway
A scenic drive along the Cape Fear coastline, showcasing beautiful waterfront views and historic sites.
- Coastal Views: Experience breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and coastal landscapes.
- Historic Sites: Discover historic sites such as Fort Fisher State Historic Site and Brunswick Town.
- Recreational Opportunities: Take a break to enjoy various recreational activities like fishing, boating, and beach-combing.
13. Cape Lookout National Seashore Scenic Drive
A scenic drive along the Cape Lookout barrier islands, offering stunning waterfront and coastal views.
- Coastal Views: Experience breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and coastal landscapes.
- Historic Sites: Discover historic sites such as Old Baldy Lighthouse and the Cape Lookout Lighthouse.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including wild horses, birds, and sea turtles.
14. Outer Banks Scenic Byway
A scenic drive along the Outer Banks coastline, showcasing beautiful waterfront views and historic sites.
- Coastal Views: Experience breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and coastal landscapes.
- Historic Sites: Discover historic sites such as the Wright Brothers National Memorial and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site.
- Recreational Opportunities: Take a break to enjoy various recreational activities like fishing, boating, and beach-combing.
15. Roanoke River Scenic Byway
A scenic drive along the Roanoke River, showcasing beautiful waterfront views and historic sites.
- River Views: Experience breathtaking views of the Roanoke River throughout your journey.
- Historic Sites: Discover historic sites such as the Chowan County Courthouse and Roanoke Island.
- Recreational Opportunities: Take a break to enjoy various recreational activities like fishing, boating, and hiking.